New Delhi: Security agencies have formulated a plan to transition counter-terrorism operations from Army troops to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) at approximately 21 locations within the Jammu region. This strategic shift aims to consolidate security operations and reallocate Army units to border defense.
The Chenab Times has learned that the plan specifically targets locations in the Udhampur and Kathua districts of the Jammu region. These sites, some of which have seen reduced Army presence due to troop redeployments, will now be managed by the paramilitary force. The integration of CRPF, including specialized units like the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), is intended to enhance operational coordination between the Army and the central armed police forces across the diverse terrain of Jammu.
This move is part of a larger strategy decided upon in 2020 to fill the operational vacuum created by the Army’s focus on the Line of Actual Control. Approximately 21 CRPF companies, totaling around 2,100 personnel, are slated to be deployed to man these 21 identified camps. These deployments will allow the CRPF and its specialized CoBRA teams to undertake targeted counter-insurgency operations, particularly in forested areas and challenging terrains within Jammu that have recently experienced militant activity and the establishment of hideouts.
The long-term vision of the security establishment is to gradually transfer the entire counter-insurgency grid in the Jammu sector to the CRPF. This would enable the complete withdrawal of Army infantry units from routine anti-terror duties. Such a redeployment would allow the Army to concentrate its resources and personnel on bolstering border security formations along the Line of Control and the International Border, thereby strengthening India’s immediate frontiers.
Officials indicated that select CRPF units are being redeployed to Jammu and Kashmir following their successful de-induction from anti-Naxal operations in central India’s Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected areas. The experience gained in counter-insurgency operations in diverse internal security environments is expected to be beneficial in the Jammu region. The CRPF’s established expertise in jungle warfare and counter-terrorism tactics, particularly through its CoBRA units, is seen as crucial for effectively managing the security situation in the identified areas.
The consolidation of security responsibilities is anticipated to streamline command and control structures, leading to more efficient deployment of resources and improved response times to security threats. The Army’s focus on border management is a critical component of national security, and the CRPF’s role in internal security and counter-terrorism operations complements this objective by maintaining stability within the hinterland and crucial operational zones. The phased handover is expected to be managed meticulously to ensure continuity and effectiveness in maintaining law and order and combating militancy in the Jammu region.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
