MHA objects to telecom security policy

Expressing its reservations over the proposed National Telecom Security Policy (NTSP), the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said the policy must lay down guidelines allowing interception of communication network by only law enforcement agencies.

In a communication to the Department of Telecommunication (DoT), the MHA said that the concerns of the security agencies were not addressed by the new policy.

The ministry said the policy must clarify that the law enforcement agencies will be empowered to intercept telephone calls, voice-mails, emails and other services like Blackberry Messenger on real-time basis and also specify proper code for setting up a secure communication network.

The policy should have enough provisions for priority communications for specified users over all networks like cellular, landline and broadband, the Home Ministry told the DoT adding that these issues should be addressed before policy finalisation.

Once the NIB clears the draft, it will be presented before the Cabinet Committee on Security headed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for final approval.