Margareth S. Aritonang, Jakarta – The State Intelligence Agency (BIN) is keeping silent amid rumors that the recent terrorist attacks have been intentionally orchestrated to stimulate an increase in the state budget allocated for counterterrorism efforts.

BIN deputy chairman Ma'roef Syamsoeddin on Monday refused to comment on the allegation, emphasizing that BIN and other law-enforcement agencies were still running further investigation on the blasts.

"Let us work," Ma'roef said on the sidelines of a hearing with the House of Representatives Commission I overseeing defense.

House Commission III overseeing law and human rights has cut the National Counterterrorism Agency's (BNPT) annual budget by 27 percent this year to Rp 92 billion (US$9.7 million).

In addition, Commission I chairman Mahfudz Shiddiq has threatened to cut next year's budget allocated not only for the BNPT, but also the State Intelligence Agency (BIN) and the National Police – the three institutions are responsible for protecting the country from terrorism. (lfr)