Operational paradigm set to change for forces

New Delhi, June 19

The operational paradigm of security agencies in Jammu and Kashmir will change and be smoother after the state is likely to be placed under Governor’s Rule.

Till now, the J&K Chief Minister headed the unified command that has the Army, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), the Border Security Force (BSF) and representatives of the intelligence agencies.

The Command is the top-most body deciding on a plan of action against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and also coordinates on various issues along the 749 km-long Line of Control (LoC).

Once the state is placed under Governor’s Rule, the Governor — in this case, NN Vohra — will head the unified command. Sources in the security establishment said the coordination will be smoother as the J&K Police will report to the Governor and not the CM.

The Army — which is the lead agency for operations in the hinterland and the CRPF in Srinagar — will be free from overt interference at the level of MLAs. An elected representative expectedly has limitations when all-out operations are initiated.

Under the law, in this case the Ranbir Penal Code, the J&K Police registers   cases of encounters, stone pelting and has to accompany the Army or the CRPF is all operations. At the local level, the intelligence sources of the JK Police are impeccable. — TNS