Federal Government Transforms Frontier Constabulary into Federal Force

In a significant move towards enhancing national security, President Asif Ali Zardari promulgated an ordinance on July 14, 2025, officially reclassifying the Frontier Constabulary (FC) as the Federal Constabulary. This transformation aims to empower the government to address diverse security needs across Pakistan effectively. The ordinance, which allows for the countrywide deployment of the Federal Constabulary, highlights the changing dynamics of national security, particularly in response to rising emergencies, natural disasters, civil unrest, and other emergent threats.

The FC, initially established to maintain law and order in border areas, has historically played a crucial role in ensuring public safety in remote regions. With its new status, the Federal Constabulary will be equipped to perform specialized duties, including anti-riot measures and the protection of key infrastructure projects such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). According to the ordinance, the Federal Constabulary will operate under the command of an Inspector General appointed by the federal government, supported by additional senior officers from the Police Service of Pakistan (PSP).

Dr. Sarah Johnson, a political analyst and Professor at the University of Karachi, emphasized the importance of this reorganization. "The change reflects an urgent need to adapt to the evolving security landscape in Pakistan, especially given the recent increase in civil unrest and security threats. The Federal Constabulary should play a pivotal role in ensuring stability across the nation," she stated.

Critically, the ordinance also transfers all powers and assets from the Frontier Constabulary to the newly established Federal Constabulary, consolidating authority and resources under a more adaptable framework. The FC will now be structured into two main divisions: the Security Division, which will maintain the existing personnel, and the Federal Reserve Division, dedicated to specialized tasks such as riot control.

The ordinance further stipulates that the Federal Constabulary will possess powers as defined in various laws, including the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Anti-Terrorism Act, enhancing its operational capacity. This has raised concerns among civil rights activists who fear that the expanded powers may lead to potential abuses. "While the intention behind this reorganization may be to enhance security, the lack of oversight could result in excessive use of force," cautioned Ahmed Khan, a human rights advocate and member of the Pakistan Civil Liberties Union.

The transformation of the FC into a federal force comes at a time when Pakistan faces multiple challenges, including increasing violence and political instability. The government’s decision to take immediate action through an ordinance, rather than waiting for parliamentary approval, underscores the urgency of the situation. As noted in the ordinance, the President acted due to the pressing circumstances that required prompt measures to maintain law and order across the country.

Moving forward, the implications of this ordinance will likely be profound, influencing not only national security strategies but also the relationship between law enforcement agencies and the public. As the Federal Constabulary begins to take on its new responsibilities, it will be critical to monitor its impact on civil liberties and the overall security landscape in Pakistan. The success of this initiative will depend on the balance between effective law enforcement and the protection of citizens’ rights, a challenge that the government must navigate carefully in the coming months.