India is keen to borrow high-end technology from Russia to intercept Voice over Internet Protocol-based services increasingly being used by terror outfits like the Lashkar-e-Tayyaba and Indian Mujahideen to mask their identities and evade the Indian security agencies.
Union home minister Sushikumar Shinde, who leads an Indian delegation to Russia on Tuesday on a three-day visit, is carrying the home ministry’s wish-list, which contains, among other things, technological assistance to trace and intercept VoIP calls.
In a series of terror attacks carried out by the LeT-IM combine, including 26/11, the security agencies have found that the groups relied on VoIP platforms so that their messages could not be intercepted.
“A large number of international calls are often routed or spoofed through Russian servers,” an official remarked. Pointing out that Russia has developed very stable technology for interception of VoIP, the Indian security brass is keen to seek assistance and share experiences.
Another key area of discussion with Russia is likely to new trans-national terror concerns over attempts being made by militants operating in the Af-Pak region to influence and forge links with Jammu and Kashmir militants and Chechen rebels. Sources said the Indian side may seek information and enhanced counter-terror cooperation. “Pakistan’s role in patronising and promoting terrorism is a common areas of concern for the two countries,” a security official said.
Meanwhile, the Indian side will also hold talks on drug trafficking with sources pointing out that many drug cartels are trying to route illegal drugs through Central Asian Republics into Punjab, among other states. Both countries will also discuss the recently signed treaty on transfer of sentenced prisoners.