Today, we bring you details about Operation Upalabdh, a Pan India Drive recently conducted by Railway Protection Force (RPF) and the facts about the force itself. This operation is targeted against alleged black marketeers within the railway system in a bid to ensure that railway tickets are available for the common man. This operation follows the nationwide Operation AAHT which was launched in February 2022 to curb human trafficking.
About Operation Upalabdh
Operation Upalabdh, which was recently conducted all through India, is aimed at curbing the activities of black marketeers who supposedly hoard and sell railway tickets illegally. A month-long effort, this operation successfully lessened the activities of the touts considerably, ensuring that railway tickets are available for the common populace who need them for travel.
Understanding the Function of Railway Protection Force
The Railway Protection Force (RPF), the contingent that undertook Operation Upalabdh, is considered an Armed Force of the Union of India. Operating under the Indian Railways, Ministry of Railways, it is a security force with its roots dating back to as early as 1882. At that time, various railway companies would hire their own guards to protect railway property. In 1957, the force gained statutory status through a parliamentary act and was further recognized as an Armed Force of the Union of India in 1985.
The Evolution of RPF’s Powers
The journey towards the empowerment of the Force commenced with the enactment of the RPF Rules in 1959 and the publishing of RPF Regulations in 1966. The same year, the Railway Property (Unlawful Possession) Act 1966 was enacted. This conferred limited power to the Force, permitting them to apprehend and prosecute offenders involved in offenses related to railway property.
RPF’s Primary Role
The Railway Protection Force is primarily assigned the responsibility of safeguarding railway property. However, it was soon discovered that the existing provisions of the RPF Act were inadequate for maintaining an effective and disciplined force. Similarly, the RPF Rules and Regulations were found to be judicially unsound.
Major Changes to Improve RPF’s Functioning
To address these issues, the RPF Act 1957 was amended by Parliament in 1985. This modification facilitated the constitution and maintenance of the Force as an armed force of the Union. The Force constitutes individuals from all parts of the country, reflecting a truly national character. Since its inception, the Force has garnered recognition and earned glory for its substantial contributions to the protection of railway property.
The Railway Protection Force plays a critical role in the security of Indian railways. Its continued proactive efforts, such as Operation Upalabdh, ensure that railway travel remains accessible for all citizens across the country.
Last Modified: February 15, 2024