Frontier Constabulary Reorganized as Federal Constabulary with Nationwide Authority

On July 14, 2025, Pakistan’s Frontier Constabulary (FC) was restructured into the Federal Constabulary, gaining nationwide jurisdiction through a presidential ordinance. This article explores the transformation, its goals for enhancing security, and concerns about potential misuse amid rising political tensions.

The Federal Constabulary was established under the Frontier Constabulary (Reorganisation) Ordinance, 2025, signed by President Arif Alvi. The ordinance amends the original 1915 Frontier Constabulary Act. Previously responsible mainly for border security in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), the force now operates across all provinces, Islamabad Capital Territory, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), and Gilgit-Baltistan. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, speaking at a press conference in Faisalabad, clarified that this is not a federal police force but a constabulary designed to bolster national security. The restructuring aims to align personnel benefits with those of other federal forces, addressing long-standing pay disparities. Commandant Riaz Nazir Gara noted the FC’s century-long service, saying that personnel have served with dedication despite limited resources.

The Federal Constabulary, now consisting of 41 wings, including 36 under the Security Division and a new Federal Reserve Division tasked with riot control and counter-terrorism, is intended to address growing security challenges such as smuggling and unrest during religious events like Muharram. Recruitment will be nationwide, with federal funding supporting its expanded mandate. Operations will be led primarily by officers from the Police Service of Pakistan (PSP). The ordinance also provides mechanisms for coordination with provincial police forces, enhancing internal security, according to the state broadcaster Pakistan Television (PTV).

However, the timing of the restructuring, just weeks before Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) planned protests on August 5 marking the second anniversary of Imran Khan’s arrest, has raised concerns. PTI leader Zulfi Bukhari warned on X that the force could be weaponized to crush dissent. Human rights groups have echoed fears about potential political misuse. Critics argue that while stronger security measures are necessary, the centralization of power without adequate oversight risks abuse. As Pakistan navigates ongoing political unrest, the success of the Federal Constabulary will depend on balancing its security mandate with respect for civil liberties to ensure it serves national interests rather than partisan agendas.