If everything goes as per plans Rapid Action Force (RAF)-the nation's exclusive riot control force will use only non-lethal weapons during riot controlling situations.
Inspector General of RAF, RN Misra, who is in city for a four-day visit to take part in functions to be organised by 106 Battalion of RAF, said that that though they were currently using some non-lethal weapons like chargeable batons but plans are there to use only non-lethal weapons for minimum loss during such operations.
The 106 Battalion which has strength of around 1,300 jawans covers five states--Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha and Chhatisgarh. “We are currently utilising some non-lethal weapon like chargeable baton but we are of the opinion that modern, non-lethal weapons will help us to effectively tackle violent disturbances across the state,” he noted. The have already recommended to the Union Home Ministry for purchase of non-lethal weapons.
He further went on to add that society expects the force to handle riotous mobs that do not happen to be armed with deadly weapons, with non-lethal means, then the force needs the latest and the most sophisticated non-lethal weapons. The impact of these weapons would only make people indulging in such anti-social activities stun, invisible for few seconds and help the forces to control the situation fast, he said.
Presently, RAF has ten battalions based in different parts of the country. Misra revealed that the Union government has plans to create five more battalions. The existing strength of RAF across the country is around 13,000.
The RAF was carved out of the Central Reserve Police Force in 1992. It is ten battalions strong at present. The force is known for sporting the trademark blue dungaree combat uniform. The RAF inspector general today inspected the parade. During his four day stay at the Sundernagar camp he will take part in different activities including familiarisation programmes.