'Federalism should not to be sacrificed in fight against terror'

Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha Arun Jaitley today said federalism should not be sacrificed in the fight against terror and suggested the Centre take along the states in the functioning of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC).

"The fight against terrorism must co-exist with federalism. Both must co-exist. You cannot sacrifice federalism while combating terrorism," Jaitley told PTI.

Seven chief ministers, including UPA ally TMC head Mamta Banerjee, have opposed NCTC. Others include Gujarat CM Narendra Modi, Tamil Nadu CM J Jayalalithaa and Orissa CM Naveen Patnaik.

In its defence, the Centre said there was no need to talk to the states on NCTC issue.

Jaitley countered the Centre's contention, saying law and order is a state subject and the states should be involved by the Centre in dealing with terrorist activities.