Rapid Action Force (RAF)
The Union Home Ministry established the Rapid Action Force (RAF) on 11 December 1991, with the mission of responding to large scale communal riots and related public disorders. This specially trained anti-riot force became fully operational in October 1992, and there are currently 10 battalions comprised of personnel from all communities. RAF is deployed to cover most of the politically volatile parts of the India.
There was recurrence of communal riots in Maharashtra in the first week of January 1993. To help the local police to control the situation, substantial paramilitary forces, including the newly created Rapid Action Force were made available by the Centre. Army columns also were deployed to help the Administration to control the riots and restore normality.
Sources and Methods
http://www.fas.org/irp/world/india/home/raf.htm
Created by John Pike
Maintained by Steven Aftergood
Updated Sunday, May 24, 1998 7:46:48 AM
