Jantar Mantar deployment: CRPF personnel without name tags sparks criticism from experts

CRPF personnel deployed at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi to handle student protesters were seen without name tags, sparking criticism from experts and retired personnel.

Critics argue the practice of removing name tags is standard in Left Wing Extremism-affected areas and Jammu and Kashmir, but inappropriate for dealing with student protesters in the national capital.

Retired CRPF additional director general HR Singh said concealing identity in Delhi where journalists and students are present is not appropriate.

Former Uttar Pradesh DGP Vikram Singh defended the practice as standard operating procedure in adversarial situations to prevent personnel identification.

A serving CRPF officer noted the situation creates 'bad optics' for the force, while the CRPF has not officially responded to requests for comment.