30,000 central troops to be withdrawn from Kashmir

The officials added that these companies may be sent back to the valley again once again closer to the polling date in Anantnag.

New Delhi, Apr 17: At least 30,000 central paramilitary personnel, sent in for the bypolls, are being temporarily withdrawn from the Kashmir valley as bypoll for the Anantnag Lok Sabha seat has been postponed.

Officials said the central government has ordered for the de-induction of 300 companies of these forces as it was difficult to keep them in the area owing to limited number of accommodation and other logistical facilities in the valley.

They were sent in only few weeks back. While the bypoll in Srinagar was held on April 9, the one scheduled on April 12 in Anantnag has been postponed to May 25.

A paramilitary company comprises about 100 personnel. The officials added that these companies may be sent back to the valley again once again closer to the polling date in Anantnag.

The Kashmir valley has about 50 CRPF battalions for law and order and counter-insurgency operation duties.

PTI