The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has initiated a recruitment drive for Special Police Officers (SPOs) in 140 villages across five terror-hit districts in the Jammu region: Poonch, Doda, Rajouri, Reasi, and Udhampur. This move mirrors similar efforts in the Kashmir Valley, aiming to bolster local security and anti-terror operations.
The initiative comes in response to a recent surge in terror-related incidents in the region. The selected villages have all witnessed attacks in the past two years, resulting in the deaths of over 35 civilians and security personnel.
Notable incidents include the deadly attack on a pilgrim bus in Reasi district in June, where nine people were killed, and the killing of a Village Defence Group member in Udhampur in April.
The recruitment process will prioritize the physical fitness of applicants, with successful candidates expected to be on board by July. SPOs will receive a monthly honorarium of Rs 6,000 from the district police and will undergo weapons training.
Officials expect these local SPOs, with their familiarity with the terrain and communities, to provide valuable support to regular security forces in counter-terrorism operations.
