25 companies of CAPF deployed in Punjab for law and order duties

In response to law and order concerns in Punjab, the state government has requisitioned 25 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), including the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Border Security Force (BSF), according to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). These additional forces have commenced their deployment in Punjab, with a focus on border regions and interior areas to augment the presence of state police personnel.

The CAPF deployment is particularly significant as the Punjab Police gears up for the upcoming Assembly elections and the festive season. The forces have been assigned to six border districts, namely Amritsar, Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, and Fazilka. The Special Deputy General of Police, Law and Order, P K Sinha, stated that the deployment extends beyond the border areas and is also shared with various commissionerates and Mohali, given their importance in the electoral campaign.

The deployment aims to maintain law and order, monitor suspicious activities, and ensure that citizens can celebrate festivals and participate in the electoral process without security apprehensions. Senior police officials noted that the paramilitary personnel are working in tandem with local police teams, with special attention given to sensitive and vulnerable areas. Security checks have been heightened at critical locations to monitor the movement of suspicious individuals and vehicles.

Amritsar Rural Superintendent of Police Kanwalpreet Singh Chahal reported that four companies of BSF and CRPF personnel have been deployed in the rural districts of Amritsar. Additionally, the Amritsar Commissioner of Police announced the deployment of three CAPF companies within the city. These security measures involve joint flag marches and area-domination exercises by police and paramilitary personnel, intended to showcase a visible security presence and deter any potential incidents.

The CAPF personnel are assisting the regular police due to the shortage of personnel, conducting checking drives to maintain vigilance.

This decision by the state government to induct central forces is an administrative move, separate from any instructions from the Election Commission of India (ECI).