CRPF hailed for historic role in Post-Article 370 Kashmir: Amit Shah Leads 85th raising day celebrations in Neemuch
Srinagar, April 17 (KINS): Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Thursday lauded the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) for its exemplary role in restoring peace and maintaining order in Jammu & Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370.
Speaking as Chief Guest at the 85th Raising Day celebrations of the CRPF, held in Neemuch—the birthplace of the world’s largest paramilitary force—Shah praised the CRPF’s discipline, dedication, and strategic efficiency in one of the most sensitive phases in India’s internal security history.
“At a time when many feared unrest, the CRPF ensured peace with such restraint and professionalism that not a single bullet was fired, nor a single polling booth looted. That in itself is historic,” Shah declared during the ceremonial parade.
He described the CRPF as a “symbol of the nation’s resolve,” commending its dual front against both terrorism in Kashmir and Maoist insurgency in central India. “From militancy in the Valley to red terror in the forests, CRPF has stood as India’s first line of internal defence,” he added.
Shah credited the CRPF’s preparedness and coordination with other forces for the successful maintenance of law and order after the Centre abrogated Article 370 in August 2019, revoking Jammu & Kashmir’s special status.
“The international community watched with concern, but the CRPF ensured that peace prevailed without provocation or disruption,” he said.
Shah noted that multiple elections held since then—including Assembly and local body polls—took place with minimal disturbances, thanks to the presence and vigilance of CRPF personnel. He highlighted the force’s role in foiling terrorist plots and maintaining operational superiority through intelligence sharing and forward deployments.
Turning to internal security beyond Kashmir, Shah spotlighted the CRPF’s relentless operations against Left Wing Extremism (LWE).
“From Pashupatinath to Tirupati, Naxals once dreamt of red terror. Today, they are reduced to four districts—and that’s because of CRPF’s courage, particularly the CoBRA battalion,” Shah asserted.
Over the last five years, the CRPF has established more than 400 forward operating bases in Naxal-affected areas, helping reduce Maoist violence by over 70% in a decade. Shah reaffirmed the government’s target to eliminate Naxalism by March 31, 2026, with CRPF playing the lead role.
Paying homage to the 2,264 CRPF personnel who have laid down their lives in the line of duty, Shah said their sacrifice would be remembered with honor during the centenary of India’s independence in 2047.
“The presence of CRPF at any site of unrest reassures the nation. They don’t just hold the line—they restore order,” he said.
Recounting key moments in the CRPF’s storied history—from the 1959 Hot Spring standoff with China, to the 1965 battle at Sardar Post against Pakistan, to thwarting attacks on Parliament and Ram Janmabhoomi—Shah emphasized the force’s unbroken legacy of valor.
Shah also acknowledged CRPF’s global contributions through UN peacekeeping missions in Sri Lanka, Haiti, Kosovo, and Liberia. With 2,708 medals, CRPF remains the most decorated force among all Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).
He highlighted several welfare and modernization initiatives under the Modi government, including: Ayushman CAPF health cards, Expanded air courier services, e-Housing portal for housing solutions, Increased female recruitment and improved barrack infrastructure
CRPF’s participation in national campaigns like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and Har Ghar Tiranga, as well as its environmental commitment—having planted over six crore saplings in the past five years—was also praised.(KINS)
