Around 50 CAPF Companies Reaching Manipur, Likely to Relieve Army Troops – News18

Manipur has got close to 50 more additional companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) that were relieved from Amarnath Yatra duties and moved to the trouble-torn state. While close to 20 have reached Manipur, others are scheduled to get there soon. Top sources confirmed to News18 that these additional paramilitary forces were likely to relieve Army troops from various areas as they were deployed and shifted in a short time from sensitive parts.

Assam Rifles troops may also also be relieved from a few places but no decision has been taken on this, said officials.

According to sources, it was discussed that as the atmosphere is better than a few weeks ago and the state government has also got additional CAPF companies, they can take over from the Army troops that were moved from the borders to handle the situation in Manipur.

When asked about the areas from where the Army will move out, a top official aware of the development said this is yet to be finalised as the movement will have to be discussed with all the stakeholders.

“In a meeting with all the forces and top government functionaries, it was discussed that CAPF can now relieve the Army from a few areas where troops were deployed for controlling the situation in the state. The plan would be to have CAPF troops shifted from Anantnag to Manipur to replace the Army. The Army has bigger duties for which officials may want a replacement,” a senior official who attended the meeting told News18.

Last week, out of 325 companies deployed in J&K for the Amarnath Yatra duties, 225 were de-inducted by the union home ministry for further deployment. Out of these 225, a few companies were sent to Manipur to assist the local police in maintaining the law and order situation in the state.

Sources said that close to 38 companies of CRPF will be reaching Manipur and 10 companies have already arrived. Similarly, BSF and ITBP companies are also reaching Manipur to handle the law and order situation and assist the local police.