SRINAGAR: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is considering extending the deployment of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) to five additional prisons in Jammu and Kashmir, following what officials describe as the successful implementation of a specialised prison security model at the Union Territory’s two central jails.
According to reports appearing in the media and statements issued by the CISF, plans are under consideration to deploy the force at the High Security Prison at Mahanpur in Kathua district, as well as District Jails in Jammu, Anantnag, Kupwara and Baramulla.
The proposed expansion follows the CISF’s assumption of security responsibilities at Srinagar Central Jail and Kot Bhalwal Central Jail in Jammu in October 2023. Both facilities house inmates linked to militancy and other serious offences and are regarded among the most sensitive correctional institutions in the country.
Officials said the CISF has introduced an Internal Security Duty (ISD) model that combines trained manpower, technology-driven surveillance and strict operational protocols aimed at preventing security breaches and curbing the movement of contraband inside prison facilities.
According to the CISF, the force is responsible for securing both the inner and outer perimeters of the two central jails through a multi-layered security framework involving access control, surveillance systems, inmate monitoring and rapid-response mechanisms.
Media reports quoting CISF officials said that prior to the force’s deployment, prison authorities faced recurring challenges involving the smuggling of mobile phones, SIM cards, narcotics and other prohibited items. Security agencies have long viewed prisons as vulnerable spaces where communication networks, criminal operations and extremist activities can potentially be coordinated.
To address these concerns, the CISF has deployed a range of specialised security equipment. These include Non-Linear Junction Detectors capable of identifying concealed electronic circuits, Dual-View X-Ray Baggage Inspection Systems for screening baggage and detecting hidden contraband, and Hand-Held Metal Detectors at all entry points.
Officials said mobile bullet-proof vehicles and round-the-clock Quick Reaction Team patrols have also been deployed to strengthen perimeter security and prevent contraband from being thrown into prison compounds.
A key feature of the security framework is the application of uniform screening procedures for all individuals entering prison premises, including visitors, prison staff, officials and security personnel.
According to the CISF, the objective is to minimise procedural vulnerabilities and ensure that security protocols are implemented without exception.
The force said the next phase of prison modernisation is expected to focus on technology integration, including AI-enabled CCTV systems, advanced video analytics for anomaly detection, unified command-and-control centres and specialised training programmes in behavioural analysis, inmate profiling and anti-sabotage measures.
The significance attached to the initiative was reflected in the visit of CISF Director General Praveer Ranjan to Srinagar Central Jail on June 8. During the visit, he reviewed operational preparedness, assessed the existing security architecture and held discussions with prison authorities regarding future security enhancements.
According to official statements, the proposed deployment at additional prisons aims to create a standardised and professional security architecture across the correctional network of Jammu and Kashmir.
Security experts have increasingly highlighted the role of prisons within the broader internal security framework, particularly in regions affected by terrorism and organised crime. They note that modern prison management now relies heavily on surveillance technology, intelligence gathering, behavioural assessment and coordinated security systems rather than conventional guarding alone.
Traditionally tasked with protecting airports, metro networks, ports and other strategic installations, the CISF’s growing role in prison security reflects a broader shift towards specialised security management in high-risk institutions.
If approved by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the expansion would significantly increase the CISF’s presence across Jammu and Kashmir’s prison system and establish a unified security model for several of the Union Territory’s most sensitive correctional facilities.
