Indo-US cyber forum defunct since 2006

BY PRIYANKA RAI

NEW DELHI

Aug. 26: The Indo-US Cyber Security Forum, which was established in 2001, is lying defunct since 2006. The forum dealt with cyber security, cyber forensics and related research. It also served as a platform for enhancing cooperation among law enforcement agencies on both sides in dealing with cyber crime, terrorism and other threats. As per an agreement between India and the US, defence services of both countries also would enhance their interaction through exchange of experience in organisational, technological and procedural aspects.

The National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) was the nodal agency from the Indian side and officers from all key agencies such as the Intelligence Bureau, the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), and the armed forces, participated in its programmes.

In July 2006, the Indian intelligence discovered that the woman who was participating in its programme as a US nominee to the forum, Rosanna Minchew, was an intelligence officer under diplomatic cover. Commander Mukesh Saini, an officer from the NSCS, who was the coordinator of the Indo-US Cyber Security Forum, along with two other officers was arrested under the draconian Official Secrets Act for allegedly passing on information to Rosanna Minchew. According to a retired RAW officer, no new appointments have been made to the Indo-US Cyber Security Forum after that incident.