The recent declaration by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir to revive the Village Defense Committees (VDC) has emerged in response to recent militant attacks. This article explores the purpose, history, contribution, and issues associated with these committees, along with their new incarnation as Village Defence Guards (VDG).
About Village Defence Committees (VDC)
Originating in mid-1990s, the VDCs were designed as a force multiplier to combat militant attacks. The primary objective of such committees was to arm and train the residents of remote, hilly villages for self-defense.
Need for Establishment of VDCs
The rise of militancy in Kashmir in the early 1990s soon spread to the neighboring Doda district in the mid-1990s. Following the tragic massacre of 13 people in Kishtwar in 1993, the demand to arm civilians increased. As a response, the Home Ministry initiated the setup of VDCs in 1995. Over time, the program expanded to include other areas of the Jammu division such as Udhampur, Reasi, Rajouri, Poonch, Kathua, and Samba districts owing to the intensification of militant activities.
Contribution of the VDCs
In the face of increasing militancy, particularly in Chenab Valley, Pir Panjal regions, and hills of Udhampur, Reasi, and Kathua districts, the VDCs emerged as crucial forces. Their understanding of local topography played a considerable role in averting many militant attacks and assisting in their capture and elimination. Notably, the presence of VDCs often deterred militants in regions where the arrival of security forces was delayed due to poor road networks.
Controversies around VDCs
Despite their significant role in combating militancy, VDCs were embroiled in several controversies related to human rights violations and associated crimes including murder, rape, and extortions.
New Beginnings: Village Defence Guards (VDG)
Recently, the renamed version of VDCs – the Village Defence Guards (VDG) was approved by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs in March 2022. The new initiative is targeted at setting up VDGs in vulnerable areas of J&K. These now operate under the jurisdiction of the district’s Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) or Superintendent of Police (SP).
Comparing VDC and VDG
There are some similarities and distinctions between the two schemes. Like their predecessors, each VDG is provided a gun and 100 rounds of ammunition. As for differences, under the new program, the leaders of the VDGs receive a monthly wage of Rs 4,500 from the government, with other members receiving Rs 4,000 each. This contrasts with the previous scheme where only the Special Police Officers (SPOs) leading the VDCs received remuneration of Rs 1,500 per month.
Last Modified: February 19, 2024