Srinagar, July 16: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has given in-principle approval to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to raise 20 new battalions, adding over 20,000 personnel, for deployment in Jammu and Kashmir, reports said.
Initially, the CRPF had sought approval for 35 battalions, but the Ministry has sanctioned 20 as an immediate measure, following the April 22 Pahalgam militant attack and subsequent ‘Operation Sindoor’. The Finance Ministry has already cleared the proposal, and Union Cabinet approval is expected soon.
Reports indicated the new battalions will be equipped with enhanced operational capabilities, tailored to J&K’s terrain and security needs. With a shift in focus from Naxal-affected areas to counter-militancy efforts in Jammu and Kashmir, the move is seen as part of a broader strategic recalibration.
Additional CRPF companies are expected to be deployed across the Union Territory shortly, with senior officials forecasting significant security restructuring to assist local police in law and order and anti-militancy operations. [KNT]
