Union Home Minister Amit Shah has announced that the government is considering the revocation of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) from Jammu and Kashmir and has outlined plans for troop withdrawal from the Union Territory.
In an interview with Gulistan News, Shah expressed the government’s intention to reassess the necessity of AFSPA in Jammu and Kashmir, pointing to an improving situation. He stressed, “The situation is indicating normalcy, and we are actively exploring the option of revoking AFSPA from Jammu and Kashmir. We are currently in a transitional phase.”
Regarding the reduction of security forces’ presence in J&K due to improved law and order, Shah stated that a roadmap for troop withdrawal has been devised and will be implemented post-elections.
“We have formulated plans for troop reduction, delegating law and order responsibilities exclusively to the Jammu and Kashmir Police. Previously, there was scepticism about the J&K Police, but now they are taking the lead in addressing challenges,” he explained.
Shah highlighted the empowerment of the J&K Police, noting a shift away from reliance on CRPF and other security forces for law enforcement towards active involvement of the local police. He affirmed, “We are enhancing the capabilities of the J&K Police, which has now assumed a leading role. The majority of encounters are now conducted by the police. Central forces are provided as supplementary support, marking a significant change in approach.”
Additionally, Shah indicated that the process of troop withdrawal has already begun, emphasizing the increased importance of the J&K Police in maintaining security.
