Following scrutiny over the use of pellet guns during the CJP protest, 16 CRPF companies, including 12 Rapid Action Force (RAF) units, have been ordered to be withdrawn from Delhi Police deployment.

Key Takeaways

  • 16 CRPF companies are being relieved from Delhi Police duties with immediate effect.
  • The withdrawal includes 12 specialized Rapid Action Force (RAF) contingents.
  • The decision follows an internal review of the July 20 CJP protest handling.
  • The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) directed the de-induction of these forces.

In a significant shift in Delhi's security landscape, the Delhi Armed Police has ordered the immediate withdrawal of 16 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) companies from its deployment. This move includes 12 units of the specialized Rapid Action Force (RAF), following intense scrutiny over their conduct during recent civil unrest.

The directive, issued by the DCP (1st Battalion) of Delhi Armed Police, follows a mandate from the Ministry of Home Affairs dated July 30. The withdrawal comes on the heels of the July 20 protest march by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) towards Parliament, where the use of pellet guns against protesters drew widespread condemnation and legal scrutiny.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this withdrawal highlights a critical breakdown in the 'force gradient'—the graduated levels of force used by police. Internal reviews within the RAF allegedly flagged that the force applied during the CJP march did not align with prescribed training standards or operational protocols, leading to injuries among protesters.

The decision to de-induct specialized units signals a high-level administrative response to operational lapses in crowd control.

Despite the controversy, CRPF Director General Gyanendra Pratap Singh has stood by his troops, stating that personnel acted in the "bona fide discharge of their duties." He has taken full responsibility for the decisions made by his officers during the operation.

Historical Background

The Rapid Action Force (RAF) was established in 1992 as a specialized wing of the CRPF. It is specifically trained to manage riots, communal disturbances, and large-scale public protests, making its current scrutiny particularly significant for national security protocols.

Did You Know?: The RAF is a specialized paramilitary unit designed specifically for riot control and maintaining public order during extreme civil disturbances.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why were the RAF units withdrawn?
The withdrawal follows an investigation into the use of pellet guns and operational lapses during the CJP protest on July 20.

2. Will Delhi's security be affected?
The order includes provisions for the immediate deployment of substitute or relieving forces to ensure no security vacuum is created.