AR units from CCpur to be deployed in J&K
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 02 2024: Amid allegation of being biased in dealing with the current crisis in the state and growing public demanding for their removal from the state, nearly 2000 troops of Assam Rifles deployed in Churachandpur district are set to be withdrawn and deployed in Jammu, which has recently experienced a surge in terror attacks.

Assam Rifles, though under the Ministry of Home Affairs, operates under the Indian Army's command, with its senior officers drawn from the Army and headed by a lieutenant general.

This deployment will see two key forces under Army control - Rashtriya Rifles and Assam Rifles - working together in Jammu.

The decision to deploy Assam Rifles troops in Jammu involves drawing personnel from Manipur, where the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is expected to take over the operational areas currently managed by the Assam Rifles.

Two CRPF battalions will be stationed in Churachandpur, replacing the existing Assam Rifles units.

This shift in deployment has sparked reactions in the state, with Kuki groups expressing opposition.

Meanwhile, Meetei groups have accused the Assam Rifles of favouring the Kukis, calling for their withdrawal from the state.

Despite these tensions, the government is moving forward with the redeployment plans.

According to a report published in The Week, a crucial meeting took place at the CRPF Group Centre in Assam on Thursday, bringing together representatives from the Assam Rifles and various community leaders.

The meeting focused on ensuring peace during the transition period, with all parties agreeing to cooperate with security forces and prevent any incidents of violence.

The reconfiguration of security forces in the state is part of a broader reassessment of the role of Central forces in the state, which has seen a mix of Army, Assam Rifles, Manipur Police, and other paramilitary units.

The complex security environment in Manipur, exacerbated by the 15-month long conflict, has also led to confusion over the roles of these forces, The Week reported.

According to security sources, the CRPF's expanded role in the state's hill districts will focus on law and order, rather than insurgency control.

A state official noted that the Centre's approach reflects an attempt to address the situation as a law and order issue, with the CRPF's neutral stance being key to restoring trust among the local population.

The deployment process is expected to unfold over weeks or months, with the home ministry carefully monitoring the situation to prevent any law and order disruptions.

Over the years, nearly a dozen Assam Rifles battalions have been stationed in Manipur, and the home ministry retains the authority to adjust force deployments based on national security needs.

This transition coincides with Lieutenant General Vikas Lakhera's recent appointment as the 22nd Director General of Assam Rifles.

With extensive experience in the Northeast, including a tenure as Inspector General in Nagaland, Lt Gen Lakhera is well-versed in the unique challenges of the region.

The Assam Rifles, with its deep roots in the tribal belt of the Northeast, has grown from 17 battalions in 1960 to 46 today.

Known for its role in securing some of the most remote and underdeveloped areas', the force has played a crucial role in integrating the region into the national mainstream, earning the trust of the local communities it serves.

(With inputs from agencies) .

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