Central Reserve Police Force Chief Defends Use of Force Amid Protests
In a recent statement, the Chief of the Central Reserve Police Force, Khyande Pratap Singh, addressed the ongoing criticism regarding the use of force against student protesters. He emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order while upholding democratic rights. The DG reassured his troops of support and accountability, clarifying that all actions taken during the protests adhered to established protocols. This incident highlights the delicate balance between the right to protest and the necessity of law enforcement, reminding all parties involved of their responsibilities within the legal framework. Singh's remarks serve as both a morale booster for security personnel and a warning to those who may attempt to disrupt public order under the guise of protest.
| Jul 30, 2026, 11:40 IST
CRPF Chief's Strong Statement Amidst Opposition Criticism
As the opposition in Parliament criticizes Union Home Minister Amit Shah for allegedly directing the use of force against student protesters, a significant statement has emerged from the Chief of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Khyande Pratap Singh. His remarks not only aim to bolster the morale of the entire force but also provide reassurance to the personnel who have been under undue pressure due to relentless attacks and political accusations from opposition leaders.
The Role of Protests in Democracy
There is no doubt that protests are a fundamental right of every citizen in a democracy. However, when such protests begin to challenge law and order, jeopardize public property, and provoke attacks on security forces, it becomes the state's duty to enforce the law firmly rather than remain a passive observer. In such circumstances, the Director General's firm stance alongside his entire unit serves to uplift the spirits of security forces and sends a clear message to those who dare to take the law into their own hands under the guise of a crowd.
Addressing the Troops
During a ceremony honoring the CRPF, DG Khyande Pratap Singh addressed his troops, stating that whether it involves operational units or law enforcement, he will take full responsibility for any decisions made and actions taken while performing their duties with integrity. He urged the personnel to carry out their responsibilities without fear, assuring them that he would accept accountability as the Director General wherever necessary. This statement comes in light of the controversy surrounding the use of pellet guns against protesters during the Parliament march on July 20.
Review of the Incident
It is important to note that questions have been raised regarding the RAF's role during the actions taken against protesters heading towards Parliament in response to the NEET paper leak. An internal review of the incident has indicated that improvements are needed in certain areas. It was noted that there was a lack of timely and adequate information provided to the troops before deployment. Additionally, it was suggested that personnel recently transferred from special operational areas like Jammu and Kashmir should not be immediately assigned to crowd control duties due to the differing nature of operational environments and law enforcement challenges.
Findings of the Investigation
However, another crucial aspect of this entire episode cannot be overlooked. A detailed investigation following the CRPF's actions concluded that the established standard operating procedures and directives were adhered to. The investigation revealed that warnings were issued to control the crowd, followed by the use of tear gas and baton charges as lower-level measures. Only when these methods failed to control the unruly elements was the decision made to use pellet guns. Furthermore, the competent authority of the Delhi Police had formally granted written permission for this action, which was executed by the RAF.
Legal Clarity
It is also essential to clarify the legal aspects of this matter. Even if a case is registered against any personnel under provisions related to causing injury, prosecution cannot proceed without the approval of the CRPF's Director General. In such cases, the DG can clarify that the use of force was authorized and lawful, executed under necessary circumstances during duty.
Lessons Learned
This entire incident serves as an important lesson. There is always room for improvement in the operations of any security force, and the purpose of internal reviews is to ensure better preparation and more effective coordination in the future. However, presenting the need for improvement as a fault of the security forces is neither fair nor just.
Maintaining Law and Order
Most importantly, those who spread chaos under the guise of democratic rights must understand that the right to protest is safeguarded only within the limits of the law. If a crowd attempts to breach security barriers or provoke police and security forces, maintaining law and order becomes a constitutional obligation of the security forces. In such cases, if necessary force is employed after all legal measures have been taken, it should be viewed as a necessity for law enforcement rather than a political controversy.
Support for Security Forces
Nonetheless, DG Khyande Pratap Singh has made it clear through his statement that if the personnel responsible for maintaining the country's security and law and order perform their duties within the framework of the law, the leadership will stand firmly with them. This message is uplifting for the morale of the security forces and serves as a clear warning to all protesters that democratic rights are respected only as long as the law is upheld. There is no place for those who take the law into their own hands in any democratic system.