Banerjee claimed she declined the offer because the spyware could have been used for political purposes, targeting judges and officials, which she found unacceptable.
Digital Desk: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said on Thursday that Israeli cyber intelligence firm NSO Group was ready to provide its spyware to the state police for Rs 25 crore around four-five years ago, a day after claiming in the Assembly that the West Bengal government had received an offer to purchase the Pegasus spyware.
Banerjee said she rejected the offer since the malware might have been used against politicians, judges, and officials, according to a press conference held at the 'Nabanna' state secretariat.
"They (NSO Group) came to our police department four to five years ago and asked Rs 25 crore to sell their technology (Pegasus spyware)." "I declined because it may have been used politically against judges or officials, which is inappropriate," Banerjee explained.
The chief minister has accused the Narendra Modi government at the Centre of deploying Israeli spyware to target the phones of journalists, legislators, activists, businesses, and others on several occasions. She's been calling for an all-party meeting on the subject.
"It's one thing if the spyware is employed to combat anti-nationals or improve security. It should not, however, be utilized for political purposes. Banerjee went on to say that it should not be used against judges or police.
In July 2021, a global coalition of media organizations reported that numerous governments had utilized spyware to spy on opponents, journalists, and businessmen throughout the world.
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