In some far-reaching police reforms and initiatives, the Punjab Cabinet on Friday approved the creation of a Special Operation Group (SOG) to check militant threats, with non-fiscal incentives for those personnel who join the new force.The SOG will contain, counter and neutralize militant threats like fidayeen attack, hostage situations and armed infiltration to save precious lives and properties, according to a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office.The Cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, discussed the advantages of setting up the SOG, which would help respond effectively, adequately and in the least possible time to neutralize armed aggressors. It will also minimize collateral damage in the form of loss of civilian lives and damage to the strategic assets of the country, working in close coordination with other state players like District Police, Civil Authorities, Army, NSG, IB, Intelligence Wing etc.
Triggered by the Gurdaspur and Pathankot fidayeen attacks, the need to create the SOG was felt by the state government on account of the inadequate training and lack of sophisticated units in the existing police units to contain, counter and neutralized militant threats like fidayeen attacks, hostage situations and armed infiltration to save precious lives and properties. The SOG would have world-class training and the highest degree of commitment to tackle such threats and would function as the state's premier and specialized response team to counter such attacks.With intelligence reports suggesting plans by fidayeen groups to target the security and vital installations/establishment in the state, the SOG will operate as an effective tool to protect Punjab and its people.Non-Gazetted Officers and officers shall have minimum tenure of five years in SOG. After successful completion of the tenure of five years, NGOs and ORs of Punjab Armed Police/Indian Reserve Battalion/Commando would be posted in district cadres.