Following allegations of pellet gun usage during recent protests, CRPF DG G.P. Singh visited the RAF headquarters to boost morale and emphasize sensitive policing.

Key Takeaways

  • CRPF DG G.P. Singh visited the 103 Battalion, RAF headquarters in Delhi.
  • The visit follows allegations of pellet gun use during the July 20 Parliament march.
  • RAF has temporarily withdrawn heavy anti-riot weaponry from deployment sites.
  • Leadership has emphasized 'sensitive policing' and accountability.

New Delhi: Amidst the intensifying controversy surrounding the alleged use of pellet guns against protestors, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Director General G.P. Singh visited the headquarters of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) 103 Battalion on Friday. During his visit, the DG paid tributes at the Martyrs’ Memorial and held an inspiring interaction with the troops, urging them to serve the nation with unwavering dedication.

The Pellet Gun Controversy Explained

The controversy stems from the July 20 march to Parliament called by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). While Delhi Police denied the use of pellet guns, a general diary entry filed by the RAF at the Parliament Street police station revealed that two rounds were fired from an anti-riot gun under the direction of a Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP). This incident resulted in injuries to at least four individuals, with one facing potential permanent vision loss.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this incident places the RAF in a difficult position regarding its core mandate of 'sensitive policing.' The transition from active protest management to a post-event assessment phase highlights the critical need for tactical restraint to maintain public trust during civil unrest.

The balance between maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of protestors is the ultimate test for specialized anti-riot units.

In response to the incident, Inspector General (RAF) Seema Dhundhia issued strict directives, withdrawing pump-action guns (PAG), anti-riot guns (ARG), and electric shields from personnel deployed at Jantar Mantar. The force has been instructed to use force only to the necessary extent in a judicious and restrained manner.

Historical Background

The Rapid Action Force (RAF) is a specialized wing of the CRPF, specifically trained to handle communal riots and large-scale civil disturbances with a focus on minimizing violence and maintaining public order through specialized equipment and tactics.

Did You Know?: The RAF is trained specifically to handle high-tension situations where standard police protocols might escalate violence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What weapons were withdrawn following the incident?
Answer: Pump-action guns, anti-riot guns, electric shock weapons, and electric shields have been withdrawn from current deployment.

Question 2: What was the DG's stance on operational decisions?
Answer: DG G.P. Singh assured personnel that he takes full responsibility for decisions made in the bona fide discharge of their duties.