Bhagalpur: JD(U) MP Ajay Kumar Mandal has urged Union home minister Amit Shah to consider establishing units of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) in Bhagalpur, citing the region’s strategic location and its vulnerability to natural disasters.Mandal met Shah recently and submitted a memorandum seeking the establishment of CAPF units in Bhagalpur. He said a permanent presence of central force would strengthen the national security network in the region and also help in responding to disasters, particularly floods.The MP cited Bhagalpur’s location in eastern Bihar and its connectivity with regions towards the north east as among the reasons for strengthening the security infrastructure in the area. He also referred to the strategic importance of the Siliguri Corridor, or ‘Chicken’s Neck’, which is near the district.Talking to TOI on Wednesday, Mandal said the establishment of CAPF units in Bhagalpur would strengthen security in the region and could also support relief and response operations during floods in the Kosi and Ganga basins and other parts of Bihar.He also sought the permanent establishment of a full-fledged National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) battalion in Bhagalpur, citing the region’s vulnerability to recurring floods and other natural disasters.According to Mandal, a stronger presence of central security and disaster-response forces would enhance the sense of security among citizens, traders, farmers and entrepreneurs and support economic activity in the region. He said Shah had assured him of positive action on the demands.The CAPF umbrella comprises the CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP, SSB, Assam Rifles and NSG. NDRF, though under the Union home ministry, is a separate specialised force for disaster response.Mandal also pointed to the state govt’s plans for developing an industrial and manufacturing hub in the Sultanganj-Bhagalpur region. He said the proposed industrial activity, along with the area’s trade in silk and agricultural products, would strengthen the case for enhanced security infrastructure, including CISF deployment if industrial units requiring such security are established.
