The government of Uttar Pradesh (UP) in northern India is set to establish a Special Security Force (SSF) for the protection of crucial governmental and commercial establishments. The SSF’s creation falls in line with the regulations and functions of the Central Industrial Security Force, albeit on a regional level. Beyond government buildings, private enterprises can hire the SSF by paying a predetermined fee. Additional Director General (ADG)-ranked official will lead this force, which will have its headquarters in Lucknow, UP’s capital city.
The Powers of the Special Security Force
Unlike other police forces, the SSF will not require any magistrate’s order or warrants to make an arrest or conduct searches. Instead, a set of rules made by the state government will govern the SSF’s powers. By not being dependent on traditional judicial protocols, this new arrangement aims to enhance efficiency and response time to threats.
Backdrop to the Formation of the Special Security Force
The decision to form the UPSSF came after the Allahabad High Court expressed disappointment over the security situation at civil courts following violent incidents in Bijnor and Muzaffarnagar courts in December 2019. Responding to the court’s directive for a designated security force for court premises, the state government planned the installation of the SSF.
Central Industrial Security Force: Model for the SSF
India’s Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) serves as the model for UP’s newly constituted SSF. Established under the Central Industrial Security Force Act of 1968, the CISF answers directly to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. This central armed force provides security coverage to industrial units, government infrastructure projects, and facilities spread across India. The CISF acts as one of several central armed forces in the country, which includes the Central Reserve Police Force, Border Security Force, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Sashastra Seema Bal, National Security Guard, and Assam Rifles.
Significance of the Special Security Force
The formation of the SSF is a significant move towards ensuring the safety of both governmental and commercial institutions in Uttar Pradesh. By taking inspiration from the operational model of the CISF, the SSF’s creation aims to bolster security measures in the state. The broad powers endowed to this force could potentially ensure quicker responses to threats, thereby bolstering the safety conditions in the region.
Implications for Private Establishments
Private establishments stand to benefit considerably from this development, as they now have the facility to hire the SSF for their security needs. This arrangement could lead to enhanced protection of critical infrastructures and businesses, fostering an environment conducive to economic growth and stability.
Information Source: IE
