Centre backs state government’s decision to pull out CRPF; Home Minister Chidambaram: Situation in J&K fragile; Centre explores phase-wise withdrawal of AFSPA in J&K
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    • The Central government on July 1 expressed its support for the decision of the J and K government to pull out the CRPF from north Kashmir and replace them with the state police. Talking to reporters in New Delhi, Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram also stated that the decision to repeal or withdraw the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in the state as well as in the Northeast was under consideration. Reports noted that the central government will initially explore the possibility of phased withdrawal of the AFSPA in two districts of Kashmir (Srinagar and Budgam) and two in the Jammu region (Jammu and Kathua) where incidents of violence had shown a marked decline1.

    On the situation in J&K, Mr. Chidambaram admitted that the situation was “very fragile … [a] slightest spark becomes conflagration. It is very unfortunate. We have to handle with great care2.” CM Abdullah on his part asked the top officials of the state police and CRPF to formulate an effective plan to ensure smooth transition of duties to the state police. He also called for the placement of magistrates in every district, and urged a magistrate to accompany the police in their missions3.

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