In a proactive measure aimed at ensuring the safety of the annual Amarnath Yatra, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved the deployment of 581 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. This decision comes just days before Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to visit the region, signaling the urgency of the security arrangements for the pilgrimage that attracts millions of devotees.
The deployment is a direct response to a formal request from the Jammu and Kashmir government made on May 20, which underscored the need for additional security forces to support the large influx of pilgrims. Following this request, the MHA communicated its approval to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police in J&K on May 23.
Before this new deployment, there were already 156 companies of paramilitary forces actively stationed in the region. These forces included 91 companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and 13 from the Border Security Force (BSF), among others from various CAPFs. The upcoming addition of 425 companies will significantly bolster the security presence; this comprises 128 companies from the CRPF, which includes five women’s companies, 130 from the BSF, 45 from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), 55 from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and 67 from the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).
All 581 companies are expected to remain stationed in the region until the conclusion of the Yatra, after which the MHA has mandated their immediate withdrawal. To ensure a seamless operational environment, the MHA has instructed the Jammu and Kashmir administration to work closely with the deployed forces to finalize a detailed security and deployment plan. This coordination will also encompass arrangements for transportation, logistics, accommodation, and other essential requirements for the personnel involved.
Additionally, specific directives have been issued to the Railway Board to allocate enough train coaches to facilitate the movement of these paramilitary forces as needed for operational readiness.
The security of the Amarnath Yatra is a paramount concern, particularly in light of recent threats and ongoing concerns regarding the safety of pilgrims. Authorities are acutely aware of the challenges presented by this year’s Yatra, especially following reports of attacks in the Pahalgam area where assailants remain at large. In response, officials are diligently working on a comprehensive security strategy to guarantee the safe and peaceful conduct of this revered pilgrimage.
