A turf war has broken out between the home and aviation ministries over control over Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). BCAS is the regulatory authority for civil aviation security in India.
Home ministry has written to the cabinet secretary that BCAS be brought under its control.
Aviation ministry, under which aviation security regulator comes at present, has responded saying the proposal is preposterous. A meeting has now been called by the cabinet secretary to discuss the issue.
BCAS plans and coordinates on aviation security matters, issues entry passes at airports across the country, lays down aviation security standards and ensures that persons implementing security controls are appropriately trained.
Sources said the possible reason why the home ministry wanted control was that Central Industrial Security Force, which provides security at airports, comes under the home ministry.