Srinagar: Authorities in India are considering extending the security responsibilities of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) to five additional prisons in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), marking another step in the expansion of paramilitary oversight in detention facilities across the region.
According to Beyond Time News, the CISF currently manages security arrangements at Central Jail Srinagar and Kot Bhalwal Jail in Jammu. Officials have now identified five more prisons that could come under the force’s control as part of a broader effort to strengthen security infrastructure.
The facilities under consideration include Mahanpur Jail in Kathua district, along with district jails located in Jammu, Islamabad, Kupwara and Baramulla.
Expansion of CISF Presence in Prisons
A spokesperson for the paramilitary force confirmed that discussions are underway regarding the possible takeover of security responsibilities at the five prisons.
The move follows an earlier decision implemented in October 2023, when security management at Central Jail Srinagar and Kot Bhalwal Jail was transferred to the CISF. Those measures were introduced as part of efforts to enhance surveillance and tighten security arrangements inside major correctional institutions in the region.
The CISF, one of India’s central armed police forces, is traditionally tasked with safeguarding strategic installations, airports, industrial units and other critical infrastructure. In recent years, its role has gradually expanded to include prison security in selected locations.
Security Measures Intensify Across IIOJK
The latest proposal reflects continuing changes in the security framework of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, where authorities have maintained extensive restrictions and increased deployments following significant political developments in recent years.
According to Beyond Time News, thousands of Kashmiris, including political leaders, activists, journalists, students, lawyers, scholars and members of civil society, have been detained in various prisons in IIOJK and different parts of India over allegations linked to opposition to Indian rule in the territory.
Human rights advocates and political groups have repeatedly voiced concerns regarding the conditions faced by detainees and have called for greater transparency and access to essential facilities.
Concerns Over Conditions of Detainees
Rights organizations and local political groups have frequently raised concerns regarding the health and welfare of detainees held in prisons inside and outside IIOJK.
According to Beyond Time News, many detainees have allegedly encountered difficulties in obtaining adequate medical treatment and other essential services. Concerns have also been expressed regarding access to legal representation, family visits and healthcare facilities.
Families of prisoners and advocacy groups have continued to call for improved detention conditions and timely medical assistance for inmates suffering from various illnesses.
These issues have remained a subject of debate among political parties, legal experts and rights organizations, which have repeatedly emphasized the importance of ensuring that prisoners are treated in accordance with national and international legal standards.
Background of the CISF’s Growing Role
Established in 1969, the Central Industrial Security Force was originally created to protect public sector enterprises and strategic assets. Over the decades, its responsibilities expanded to cover airports, metro networks, government facilities and key industrial installations.
The deployment of CISF personnel in prisons represents a relatively new aspect of its mandate. Security experts say such arrangements are generally aimed at introducing specialized surveillance systems, strengthening perimeter security and improving coordination during emergencies.
The decision to bring more prisons under CISF supervision, if approved, would further increase the force’s footprint in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
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Political and Human Rights Debate Continues
Developments relating to detention policies and prison administration in IIOJK continue to attract attention from political parties and rights groups.
Observers note that debates surrounding security, civil liberties and the treatment of detainees remain highly sensitive issues in the region. Calls for greater transparency and accountability have persisted, particularly regarding prison conditions and access to healthcare.
At the same time, authorities maintain that enhanced security arrangements are intended to ensure the safe functioning of correctional institutions and prevent security-related incidents.
Significance of the Latest Move
The proposal to transfer security responsibilities of five additional prisons to the CISF highlights the continuing evolution of administrative and security policies in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Should the plan move forward, the number of prisons guarded by the paramilitary force in the region would increase significantly, potentially reshaping the management structure of detention facilities and adding another layer to the broader security apparatus already in place.
As discussions continue, the issue is expected to remain under close scrutiny from political observers, rights advocates and stakeholders concerned with prison administration and detainee welfare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which prisons may come under CISF security in IIOJK?
The prisons being considered include Mahanpur Jail in Kathua and district jails located in Jammu, Islamabad, Kupwara and Baramulla.
Which prisons are currently guarded by the CISF in IIOJK?
Central Jail Srinagar and Kot Bhalwal Jail in Jammu have been under CISF security since October 2023.
What is the role of the Central Industrial Security Force?
The CISF is a paramilitary force responsible for protecting strategic installations, airports, government infrastructure and selected correctional facilities.
Why are rights groups concerned about detainees?
Rights advocates have expressed concerns regarding access to healthcare, legal assistance and other essential facilities available to prisoners.
When was the security of Central Jail Srinagar handed over to the CISF?
Security responsibilities for Central Jail Srinagar and Kot Bhalwal Jail were transferred to the CISF in October 2023.
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