Frontier Constabulary renamed Federal Constabulary to boost internal security: Talal Chaudhary

Express Tribune

3 days ago

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Minister of State for Interior Senator Talal Chaudhary announced on Monday that the Frontier Constabulary (FC) is being restructured and renamed as the Federal Constabulary to enhance Pakistan's internal and national security.
Speaking at a press conference alongside FC Commandant Riaz Nazir Gara, he clarified that the revamping of the FC is not politically motivated but an institutional necessity.
Chaudhary emphasised that the restructuring is solely a defence-related initiative designed to strengthen national security by providing enhanced support to law enforcement agencies.
'For nearly a century, the FC has played a crucial role in maintaining peace and order within the country and along its borders. Yet, it has not been given recognition or benefits comparable to other security forces,' he said.
Despite limited salaries and fewer privileges, FC personnel have consistently demonstrated unwavering dedication, he noted. 'Now, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, the government has decided to transform the FC into a federal force, addressing long-standing disparities with an upgraded structure and expanded scope.'
The minister clarified that while the name will change, the core function and identity of the force as a constabulary will remain intact. The restructuring will ensure that FC personnel receive salaries, training, and benefits on par with other national security forces.
Chaudhary highlighted the FC's long-standing role in combating drug trafficking, smuggling, and assisting civil law enforcement during key national events, including Muharram, elections, and anti-polio campaigns. He confirmed that these duties would continue under the new federal framework.
As part of the reforms, the jurisdiction of the Federal Constabulary will be expanded to cover all four provinces, as well as Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Recruitment will be open to all Pakistani citizens, and the federal government will assume full operational and financial responsibility, relieving provinces of any budgetary burden.
The revamp will also include updated training modules, capacity-building initiatives, and a modernised command structure aimed at improving morale and operational effectiveness.
FC Commandant Gara provided historical context, noting that the FC was originally established in 1913 as the North-West Frontier Constabulary, under a law now over a century old.
'Recognising the need for reform, the force will now be realigned into a stronger, federally managed institution with clearly defined command tiers—platoons, companies, and wings,' he said. He added that out of 41 total wings, 36 are currently deployed under the security division. The new structure aims to streamline these units for better efficiency.
Commandant Gara also honoured the sacrifice of FC personnel, revealing that 423 members have laid down their lives in the line of duty. He said the reorganisation would honour these sacrifices through better command systems, improved facilities, and clearer career paths.
Both Chaudhary and Gara urged the public, media, and stakeholders to carefully review the new ordinance governing the Federal Constabulary to avoid misconceptions.
'This transformation represents a strategic and institutional reform that will enhance the operational capability of one of the country's oldest law enforcement bodies,' they concluded.