Tourist Spots In Focus As J&K May See Major Security Restructuring After Amarnath Yatra
Significant changes in the security architecture of Jammu and Kashmir are expected once the Amarnath Yatra concludes, according to top sources within the security establishment. These adjustments to include implementation of plan for redeployment of forces, redefined areas of responsibility, and revamped access control mechanisms.
Tourist destinations across the region are also expected to witness a shift in deployment strategy. All these changes were planned in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, with several components of the broader strategy already implemented.
Currently Baisaran Valley is under the security cover of the CRPF and has not been opened for tourists yet.
Since many sites have not been opened up yet, sources indicated that they would now open after the Yatra with the latest, upgraded security plan in a phased manner.
Sources also indicated that there could be alterations in the deployment pattern of the Rashtriya Rifles—a topic that was actively discussed in 2023.
With the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and other security agencies taking on expanded roles, certain changes have already been initiated, albeit temporarily for now.
'Last month, from total nine locations, CRPF was replaced by CISF which also includes Raj Bhawan and jails. We were told that this was done for a limited period, but later there were changes in the decision," a senior officer deployed in J&K told News18 on the condition of anonymity.
While the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has been assigned static security responsibilities, the CRPF is poised to take on a more significant operational role.
High-level officials suggest that the CRPF's presence may be expanded to areas where it previously had minimal or no independent operational footprint.
'In parts of jungle areas of J&K, CRPF is now actively creating its footprints. Senior officers are getting deployed for a good longer span with troops for operations. The tactical area of responsibility will get further increased with the help of J&K Police. Rashtriya Rifles, which dominates the area, is likely to get other key roles and areas of responsibility," a senior government official aware of the development told News18.
Sources said the CRPF has already started camping in areas where it previously had minimal presence.
The focus area would be the Pir Panjal range, where security force deployment is likely to see major changes. The umbrella plan has a detailed deployment extension with coordinated operational areas.
Meanwhile, the BSF is likely to take charge of security in areas close to the border, and its troops will receive enhanced responsibilities.
Sources added that the BSF, which played a highly praised role in Operation Sindoor, will be given additional responsibilities due to its longstanding familiarity with the border areas. The force may get some operational parts, but this is under consideration.
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