J&K Police augments operational capabilities for anti-terror efforts with new OCAPS

Director General Dilbag Singh flagged off 307 officials and 22 command vehicles dedicated to 22 police stations in Jammu and Kashmir on October 28. This initiative falls under the Operational Capabilities Augmentation of Police Stations (OCAPS), a component of the terror-free plan aimed at fortifying 43 police stations to combat terror-related crimes.

During the ceremony held at the Central Training Centre in Lethpora, Singh lauded the training provided to the officers and officials. He emphasised the role of the police force in safeguarding the youth, citizens, and school-going children, urging continued support from the community for a better tomorrow.

Highlighting a transformation over the past five years, the DGP pointed to ‘zero’ collateral damage, ‘zero’ law and order incidents, and ‘zero’ civilian casualties, underscoring a decline in the graph of terrorism. "The word 'Zero' has become a positive indicator, shedding off the negativity in J&K during the last five years," he stated, expressing confidence in the region's trajectory towards achieving zero terrorism. Singh detailed the implementation of OCAPS this year, an initiative focusing on equipping 43 police stations with weaponry and gadgetry for Peace and Stability Teams (PSTs). The first phase covered 21 police stations, and the remaining 22 are now receiving similar reinforcement. These police stations are integral to the zero terror plan, the DGP affirmed.

The command vehicles allocated to the police stations are equipped with technology crucial for anti-insurgency operations. Singh added that the safety of the Jawans is a top priority, and the provision of additional safety gear will enhance the force's efficiency and capabilities in the fight against terror.

Police stations under OCAPS will now possess advanced weaponry and drones, along with specialised 14-member squads dedicated to handling terror incidents. Addressing the recent success in neutralising five terrorists in Machil, Kupwara, Singh acknowledged ongoing efforts by the enemy to disrupt peace in J&K. He assured that the border grid remains robust, and collaborative efforts between police and security forces are resolute in eradicating terrorism.

In a live demonstration of their skills, trained JK Police officers showcased their proficiency in anti-terror operations, underlining the force's readiness to combat any threat.

Looking back on his tenure, the J&K Police DG expressed satisfaction in witnessing a tangible return of peace on the ground. He noted the disappearance of disruptive practices like Bandh calls and stone pelting, alongside a significant decline in the number of misguided youth joining terror ranks.