ITBP, SSB, Delhi Police marching contingents out of R-Day parade 2016

For the first time, the government has decided to cut down marching contingents of some of the paramilitary forces and Delhi Police at the Republic Day parade next month. According to a circular sent to various paramilitary force headquarters by the Defence Ministry, only a marching contingent each of BSF, Assam Rifles and RPF will be participating.

CRPF, world’s largest paramilitary force, has been asked to send an all-female marching contingent and its band for this year’s Republic Day parade in which French President Francois Hollande will be the Chief Guest. Marching contingents of ITBP, SSB and CISF will not be participating in this year’s event, according to a communique issued by the Defence Ministry.

Senior officials who are involved in the exercise expressed their shock and dismay over the exclusion of these prominent forces from the parade.