CRPF internal reports indicate lack of training, facilities

Internal reports of the CRPF, which has just lost 75 personnel in the Maoists attack in Dantewada, say the force's field commanders had pointed out lack of training, work pressure and communication gaps as some reasons for losses in operations.

As per the reports, senior officers were of the view that non-availability of sufficient firing range, lack of shooting practice were some of the reasons for more casualties of CRPF personnel during operations.

The reports, prepared by the force's field commanders after a series of meetings, also mentions a senior officer who looks after training expressing his unhappiness over the kind of training.

He said the normal PT/Parades are not getting due importance in Battalions or Group Centres, which he felt affects the turnout and training aspect of men.

The reports also mention that certain Battalions have shortage of Assistant Commandant and various other ranks and non-availability of Company Commander for a longer duration affects the functioning and efficiency of the particular Company.

It was also felt by certain officers that competency and efficiency level varies from unit to unit and that training level had gone down.

Officers also mentioned that the personnel frequently change their role at a short notice which dos not give them time for mental preparation. The roles include law and order duties, Counter Insurgency Operations, VIP security, communal tension, election duties, jungle warfare, tackling terrorism, extremism among others.

It was also felt that infrastructure and living conditions of the personnel posted in various parts of the country have to be improved.

Questions were also raised on non-implementation of standard operating procedures at times.

http://www.hindustantimes.com/CRPF-internal-reports-indicate-lack-of-training-facilities/H1-Article3-530406.aspx