Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai on Wednesday said the riots in Delhi this year were a “big conspiracy” to disturb the country but security forces like the Rapid Action Force (RAF) played an important role in “suppressing the elements that spread anarchy” during the time.
Rai was addressing RAF troops on the occasion of the force’s 28th anniversary, or raising day, at a Central Reserve Police Force camp in Gurugram.
The RAF is a special anti-riot wing of the CRPF and was raised in 1992.
“A big conspiracy was deployed to disturb the country through the Delhi riots that took place this year,” Rai said in his address to the troops. But RAF personnel “completely defeated” the nefarious designs of the rioters, he added.
“You suffer damage and injury during riots and protests. But you use force only when violent groups start troubling the peace of society,” he added.
The RAF was deployed for law and order role during the communal violence that broke out in northeast Delhi in February, killing 53 people and injuring about 200 others.
The RAF has 15 battalions (over 15,000 personnel) based in various parts of the country.
Delhi Police has filed multiple chargesheets before a Delhi court in the riot cases.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also greeted RAF personnel on the occasion.
“Greetings to RAF personnel and their families on their 28th anniversary. RAF has distinguished itself in dealing with the challenges relating to law and order,” Shah said on Twitter.