New Delhi, May 10 — In a significant security upgrade following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has temporarily extended its security responsibilities to include cargo operations and the In-Line Hold Baggage Screening System (ILHBSS) across 69 civil airports in India.The decision, taken in direct response to heightened threat perceptions, was initiated after a directive from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) issued on May 9. This enhanced coverage will remain in effect until May 18, a CISF spokesperson confirmed.
New Mandate Includes Cargo Oversight and Baggage Screening
Traditionally, CISF has been responsible for passenger frisking and the screening of cabin baggage at airports. The checking of cargo and ILHBSS was managed by private security personnel hired by airlines and airport operators. However, the current security scenario has prompted a temporary shift in responsibilities to the CISF, India’s designated counter-terrorism force for civil aviation."The enhancement of CISF's mandate is essential to reinforce security arrangements at all civil airports," the spokesperson said.
Under the new directive, CISF will:
- Temporarily supervise cargo operations
- Oversee the ILHBSS process
- Conduct random checks
- Monitor access control to critical airport facilities
Strengthened Measures Already in Place
All 69 airports covered under the CISF have already implemented the upgraded security protocols, ensuring immediate compliance with the BCAS directive. The spokesperson highlighted that the force responded swiftly, resuming oversight of both cargo and baggage screening operations.Officials stated that this additional layer of security is designed to act as a crucial secondary screening mechanism, aiming to bolster aviation safety during this period of elevated threat.
This marks a rare instance where the CISF’s operational scope has been broadened beyond its usual responsibilities, reflecting the gravity of the current security environment.