The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), which is currently managed by the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation (MOCA), is likely to be moved to remain under the control of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, it is reported from New Delhi.

Home Ministry is said to have decided to putforth a proposal in this regard, initially opposed tooth-and-nail by MOCA, to the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) very soon. The primary reason for the move is that security at all Airports in the country is provided by personnel of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which also comes under the Union Home Ministry.

Entrusted with the responsibility of laying down standards, formulating policies and measures for the safety of all commercial aircrafts, BCAS controls several other Central agencies such as the Intelligence Bureau, immigration affairs, security personnel, local police working at Airports. A Ministry official conceded that the proposal to bring BCAS under its control is likely to be put up to CCS.

“MOCA initially objected to this proposal but relented later,” said the unnamed official. “PMO and NSA are involved in the decision-making process taking cognizance of the safety and security of Indian Airports.  After CCS’ approval, CISF’s role would grow multi-fold as the new arrangement is likely to enhance coordination and monitoring as all agencies would be under the same Ministry,” the official concluded.