In a significant move to ensure the safe conduct of the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has sanctioned the deployment of 581 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The deployment comes just ahead of Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s scheduled visit to the region.
The decision follows a formal request from the Jammu and Kashmir government on May 20, seeking additional forces to bolster security during the annual pilgrimage, which draws lakhs of devotees. A communication confirming the approval was sent to the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police of J&K on May 23.
At present, 156 companies of paramilitary forces are already stationed in the region. These include 91 companies of the CRPF, 13 from the BSF, and others from different CAPFs. An additional 425 companies will now be deployed, comprising 128 CRPF companies (including five Mahila companies), 130 from the BSF, 45 from the CISF, 55 from the ITBP, and 67 from the SSB.
All 581 companies are expected to remain stationed in Jammu and Kashmir until the conclusion of the Yatra. Once the pilgrimage ends, the MHA has instructed that the companies be withdrawn immediately.
The MHA has also asked the UT administration to coordinate closely with the deployed forces to finalize a detailed security and deployment plan. The administration is responsible for arranging transportation, logistics, accommodation, and other essential facilities for the personnel.
In addition, special directions have been issued to the Railway Board to allocate sufficient train coaches to facilitate the movement of paramilitary forces as per operational requirements.
Security for the Amarnath Yatra remains a top priority, especially as threats continue to loom, with perpetrators of recent attacks in Pahalgam still at large. This year’s Yatra presents a major challenge to the security grid, and authorities are working on a comprehensive plan to ensure the safety and peaceful conduct of the pilgrimage.
