Salutes J&K Police’s Role in Peacebuilding
FIRDOUS AHMAD
SRINAGAR, Sep 30: As Director General of Police (DGP) R R Swain bids farewell to his illustrious three-decade career, he emphasized his belief that he has not missed the opportunity to serve the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking on his last day of service during a visit to the Balidan Stambh in Jammu, Swain reflected on his journey, which he described as both challenging and rewarding.
Swain said his foremost mission throughout his service was to ensure that the people of Jammu and Kashmir could live free from fear and intimidation. “I believe I have not lost the opportunity to play my part in bringing peace and prosperity to the region,” he remarked, adding that his efforts were aimed at making a lasting positive impact. He expressed deep gratitude to the government, his colleagues, and the Almighty for giving him the rare opportunity to serve in the region.
“Serving in Jammu and Kashmir as a police officer is a unique and profound responsibility,” Swain stated. “Many of my colleagues, whom I knew personally, sacrificed their lives for the cause of peace. It is my duty to honor their memory.” He paid tribute to the fallen heroes of the police force, recognizing the immense sacrifices made to protect the people and maintain law and order.
Reflecting on the critical role of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Swain praised the force for being both the toughest and the most people-friendly in the face of terrorism and separatism. “J&K Police is the bulwark against terrorism, known not only for their bravery but also for their community-friendly approach,” he said. He highlighted that the force’s unique ability to handle both heavily armed terrorists and stone-pelting mobs with minimal casualties makes it one of the most distinguished police forces in the country.
Swain also noted the diversity within the ranks of the J&K Police. “The force mirrors the larger fabric of J&K, with personnel from all communities and regions, including Dogri, Gojri, Kashmiri, Pahari, Shina, and many others, representing various faiths—Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, and Buddhists.”
In his farewell remarks, the DGP acknowledged the persistent challenges faced by the J&K Police, particularly the external pressures posed by hostile foreign entities. “No other police force in the country faces such an adversary, openly supported from across the border. If not for the foreign interference, the J&K Police would have long ended the cycle of violence,” he said.
Swain also lamented that the stories of the unsung heroes of the J&K Police are often overlooked. “The sacrifices of these brave individuals—both those who have fallen and those who continue to serve—are not adequately chronicled. There are families who have lost half their members while standing up for law enforcement and peace.”
Despite these immense challenges, Swain expressed pride in the role of the police in ushering in a new era of peace and stability in the region. “The J&K Police takes satisfaction and pride in being the harbinger of this new dawn,” he remarked. His reflections were also documented in a recently published coffee table book, J&K Police 2024, which highlights the contributions of the police force in bringing peace and tranquility to the region.
Swain’s parting words highlighted the resilience and dedication of the Jammu and Kashmir Police. As he steps down, his legacy is one of perseverance, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
