Earlier today, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has authorized opening of three additional branches for the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in Imphal, Chennai, and Ranchi.

At present, the NIA has its branches in Lucknow, Chandigarh, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Kolkata, Guwahati, Jammu, Kochi, and Raipur. This decision has been taken by the Government of India to ensure quick response in the concerned states in case of an emergency.

As per the press release, the action has been taken to strengthen the investigation capability of NIA especially in terrorism-related matters and other issues related to national security. Additionally, this will ensure expedient documentation of evidences and vital information related to cases.

The highlight of this decision is setting up a branch in Chennai, which has been facing radicalization and an increase in the number of terror groups emerging in the state.

Recently, Special Sub-Inspector Wilson had been shot dead in the Kanyakumari district of Chennai in early January this year. It has been speculated that the crime had been committed with the intention of creating and maintain terror in the minds of people living in the state. The SSI was killed by Abdul Shameem and Thowfeek, who were radicalized by Khaja Mohideen, who is an active member of the ISIS.

Several speculations have been made regarding base movements of ISIS and AL-Qaeda in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. In fact, Haha Fakruddin, the first known ISIS recruit in India was from Tamil Nadu which makes this branch establishment move by NIA even more urgent.

In response to such events of gruesome murders and terrorist activities taking place in these regions, the NIA looks forward to strengthen the country’s anti-terrorism response.