CRPF Sounds Alarm on Rahul Gandhi’s Security Breaches

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has raised serious concerns over alleged violations of security protocols by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, during his movements, according to official sources. The CRPF, tasked with providing ‘Z plus (ASL)’ armed protection to the 55-year-old high-profile protectee, has formally communicated these issues in a letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, highlighting potential risks to Gandhi’s safety due to unscheduled and unannounced movements.

Gandhi, who is guarded by a team of 10-12 armed CRPF commandos under the Advanced Security Liaison (ASL) framework, is required to adhere to strict security guidelines outlined in the central government’s ‘yellow book’ for VIP protection. These protocols mandate prior coordination with the CRPF’s VIP security wing to allow for reconnaissance and security arrangements at locations Gandhi intends to visit. However, the CRPF has flagged instances where Gandhi undertook “unscheduled movements without intimation,” both during domestic trips and before international travel, creating vulnerabilities in his security cover.

In its letter, described as a routine communication, the CRPF emphasized that such unannounced movements pose a significant “risk” to Gandhi, classified as a “high-risk” VIP due to his political stature and public visibility. The force reiterated the importance of compliance with security guidelines, urging Gandhi and his staff to keep the CRPF informed of all movements to ensure effective protection. The letter also included a detailed outline of the ‘yellow book’ protocols, reinforcing the need for constant coordination to safeguard the Congress leader.

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This is not the first time the CRPF has raised such concerns. Sources indicate that similar communications have been sent in the past, reflecting ongoing challenges in aligning Gandhi’s movements with security requirements. The CRPF’s proactive approach underscores the complexities of securing a high-profile figure like Gandhi, whose frequent public engagements and travel demand meticulous planning to mitigate potential threats.

The letter to Kharge comes amid heightened scrutiny of VIP security arrangements, with the CRPF emphasizing that adherence to protocols is non-negotiable to ensure the safety of protectees. As the Congress party reviews the CRPF’s concerns, the issue highlights the delicate balance between a leader’s public duties and the stringent measures required to protect them in a high-risk environment. The CRPF has called for greater cooperation from Gandhi’s team to prevent future lapses, signaling that any deviation from established guidelines could jeopardize the robust security framework in place.

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