CRPF to replace BSF in Jammu and Kashmir

CRPF will replace BSF in the hinterland of Kashmir valley for counter-insurgency operations by March.

Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) will replace Border Security Force (BSF) in the hinterland of Kashmir valley for counter-insurgency operations by March.

HT Image

Ten new units of CRPF would be deployed in the valley by March replacing BSF units, CRPF sources said here on day.

With the induction of the ten units, the total number of CRPF units in Jammu and Kashmir would go up to 72. While 14 units are deployed in Jammu region, the remaining are posted in Kashmir valley.

The new units to be inducted will be mostly comprising personnel recruited over the past couple of years, the sources said.

While two units have completed their training, other units are expected to complete their initiation into the force by end of next month, they added.

CRPF has already replaced BSF in Srinagar but three units of BSF — two at Raj Bhawan and one at Srinagar airport — will stay put, they said.

BSF, which conducted anti-militancy operations in Kashmir valley for nearly 13 years from 1991, was replaced in the city by CRPF in 2004. The BSF troops have since been moved to their primary duty of guarding the Line of Control and International Border.