PK Mishra criticises ex DG AR over border security
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, September 14 2024:
In a candid interview with News9 Live, former Additional Director General (ADG) of the Border Security Force (BSF), PK Mishra, raised concerns about Assam Rifle's handling of border security and counter-insurgency operations in Manipur.
He also criticised recent remarks made by former Director General of Assam Rifles PC Nair suggesting divisions within the Manipur Police force, stating that such statements could damage the morale of the police personnel.
PK Mishra questioned why, during his (Ex DG AR)time on the job, proper measures were not taken to secure the borders effectively.
"What was he doing for so many years on the job? Didn't he ask the government, I require this number of forces so that the border can be guarded properly?' .
In spite of having COB guarding the border, why didn't they stop it?" he remarked, addressing the shortcomings in border security management.
The former ADG acknowledged the contributions of Assam Rifles in operations in Myanmar and Manipur.
He praised the detailed brief provided by the former Director General of Assam Rifles on the events in these areas, noting that it was well-informed given his experience in the field.
However, he raised concerns about why only two battalions were shifted from Kangpokpi and Churachandpur and not from other regions.
Mishra indicated that such decisions require further explanation, stating, "There are certain reasons definitely...that he has to mention" .
Mishra also took issue with statements that suggested divisions within the Manipur Police force along ethnic lines, cautioning against language that could demoralise the local police.
"Stating that the police is divided goes against the morale of Manipur Police," he said, adding that the local police are crucial in providing intelligence and should not be undermined.
He drew a comparison to Jammu and Kashmir, noting that despite differences in geography, the Jammu and Kashmir Police work as a unified force.
"Manipur Police is Manipur Police", Mishra asserted, emphasising that the police in various districts like Churachandpur, Chandel, and Bishnupur had been of great assistance in past operations.
"We should not have such words for dividing Manipur Police", he stressed.
Reflecting on security concerns in Manipur, Mishra pointed to the challenges posed by insurgents, demographic changes, and the flow of weapons from across the border.
He expressed disappointment over the lack of proactive measures, questioning, "What have we done? We should have taken some action for guarding the border and also for counter-insurgency operations in those areas from where they are penetrating".
Mishra acknowledged the role of Assam Rifles, recognising their contribution to maintaining security in the region, but also voiced agreement with recent comments made by the Inspector General of Manipur Police.
"I do agree with him - let's not divide Manipur Police," he said, adding that while the IG may not have explicitly mentioned it, divisions within the police should not be based on ethnic lines like Meetei, Kuki, or Naga.
Drawing on his own experience, Mishra emphasised the importance of unity within the security forces.
"I was not only IG BSF, I became Additional Director General of the force also, so I can well tell you," he concluded, calling for cohesive efforts in addressing the security challenges in Manipur.
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