New Delhi – In a significant development concerning the safety of high-ranking government officials, the Delhi Police has initiated measures for S Jaishankar security enhancement following a formal request from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). This decision comes in the wake of escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan after the recent terror attack in Pahalgam.
MEA Formally Requests S Jaishankar Security Enhancement
The S Jaishankar security enhancement process was set in motion this weekend after the MEA submitted a specific request to the Delhi Police. According to sources familiar with the matter, the request came during a period of heightened military hostilities along the India-Pakistan border. The External Affairs Minister, who has been vocal about India’s position on terrorism and cross-border issues, is currently protected under Z category security provided by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
A senior police officer revealed, “He has Z category security cover of the CRPF, which has six gunmen for mobile security, and 10 more for residence security. Earlier, there was Z-plus security, with 10 security personnel for mobile security and 10 others for residence security.” The downgrade from Z-plus to Z category had occurred previously, but current circumstances have necessitated a review of these arrangements.
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Comprehensive Review Meeting on VIP Security
The S Jaishankar security enhancement decision was part of a broader security review conducted on Sunday. Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora chaired a meeting with senior officers to discuss security measures for VIPs who had made public statements against Pakistan, particularly on social media platforms. The timing of this meeting was crucial, coming at the peak of military confrontation between the two neighboring countries.
During this high-level meeting, authorities identified approximately 25 political leaders, primarily from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who might require additional security coverage. This list includes prominent figures like Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Bhupender Yadav, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and BJP MPs Nishikant Dubey and Sudhanshu Trivedi. The security assessment also extended to BJP veteran leader Murli Manohar Joshi and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
S Jaishankar Security Enhancement Measures Under Consideration
The proposed S Jaishankar security enhancement plan includes several robust measures designed to strengthen the protective framework around the External Affairs Minister. Delhi Police have urged the Union Home Ministry to conduct a fresh threat assessment for Minister Jaishankar, which would form the basis for any security upgrades.
Among the specific measures being considered for the S Jaishankar security enhancement are:
- Increasing the number of spotters positioned outside the Minister’s residence and office
- Provision of a dedicated escort car for travel
- Assignment of a new call sign for secure communications
It’s worth noting that current Home Ministry guidelines regarding security arrangements for VIPs and VVIPs do not specifically provide for a dedicated escort car or unique call sign. “On Sunday, the MEA had sent a letter to a senior police officer at Police Headquarters. This has now been forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs, asking for a decision to be taken after conducting a fresh threat assessment,” sources revealed.
Procedural Aspects of the S Jaishankar Security Enhancement Request
The official protocol for the S Jaishankar security enhancement involves multiple government departments working in coordination. The initial request from the MEA was directed to a senior police officer at Delhi Police Headquarters. Following standard procedure, this request has been forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs for further assessment and final decision.
Security categorization in India follows a structured system, with Z-plus being higher than Z category. The potential upgrade for Minister Jaishankar would represent a significant increase in security resources allocated for his protection. The final decision would be based on comprehensive threat perception analysis conducted by specialized security agencies.
Broader Security Measures for Political Leaders
While the S Jaishankar security enhancement remains a priority, the Delhi Police are simultaneously reviewing security arrangements for numerous other political leaders. The identified individuals predominantly belong to the ruling BJP, suggesting a pattern of potential threats against government representatives who have taken strong positions on international relations, particularly concerning Pakistan.
The security review extends beyond just physical protection personnel. Sources indicate that the Delhi Police Security Division has been instructed to install first-aid kits in all vehicles used by security personnel. This precautionary measure ensures that immediate medical assistance can be provided in case of emergencies before professional medical help arrives.
Training Initiatives for Security Personnel
In conjunction with the S Jaishankar security enhancement process, Delhi Police have launched special training programs for security personnel. “From Monday, the security personnel are being called to New Police Lines for firing training and special sessions on medical emergencies,” sources confirmed.
These training sessions are designed to equip security personnel with advanced skills in two critical areas:
- Firearms proficiency: Improving accuracy, response time, and tactical decision-making during potential security threats
- Medical emergency response: Developing capabilities to provide immediate life-saving interventions until professional medical assistance becomes available
This comprehensive approach to the S Jaishankar security enhancement reflects the seriousness with which authorities are treating potential security threats in the current geopolitical climate.
Context: Pahalgam Terror Attack and Its Aftermath
The S Jaishankar security enhancement measures must be understood within the context of recent regional developments. The terror attack in Pahalgam had significant ramifications for India-Pakistan relations, leading to increased military activities along the border. As External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar plays a crucial role in diplomatic communications during such sensitive periods.
The Minister’s public statements on terrorism and cross-border issues have positioned him as a key government voice on international security matters. In his capacity as External Affairs Minister, Jaishankar has consistently articulated India’s stance against terrorism and state-sponsored violence, potentially making him a high-value target for those opposing these positions.
Foreign Secretary’s Security Also Under Review
Along with the S Jaishankar security enhancement, authorities are also reviewing security arrangements for Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. As the top bureaucrat in the Ministry of External Affairs, Misri works closely with Minister Jaishankar on international diplomacy matters and may face similar security considerations.
The parallel security review for both the Minister and Foreign Secretary indicates a comprehensive approach to protecting India’s diplomatic leadership during periods of international tension. This coordinated security strategy ensures continuity in India’s foreign policy operations even amidst heightened security concerns.
Technological Aspects of Enhanced Security
Modern VIP security protocols, such as those being considered for the S Jaishankar security enhancement, typically incorporate advanced technological solutions alongside human security personnel. These may include:
- Electronic surveillance systems around residences and offices
- Secure communication channels resistant to interception
- Advanced vehicle security features for official transportation
- Threat monitoring systems to identify potential risks before they materialize
While specific details about technological security measures are not typically disclosed for security reasons, the comprehensive nature of the security review suggests a multi-layered approach to the S Jaishankar security enhancement.
Timeline for Implementation
Although precise timelines for the S Jaishankar security enhancement have not been publicly disclosed, the urgency of the situation suggests expedited implementation. The formal request from the MEA and the subsequent review meeting chaired by the Delhi Police Commissioner indicate that this matter is being treated with high priority.
The implementation timeline would likely depend on the Home Ministry’s threat assessment findings and resource allocation decisions. Given the current geopolitical situation, authorities are likely to move swiftly on finalizing and implementing the enhanced security measures for the External Affairs Minister.
Final Word: National Security Implications
The S Jaishankar security enhancement initiative reflects broader national security concerns in the face of regional tensions. As India navigates complex diplomatic relationships, ensuring the safety of key government officials responsible for foreign policy becomes paramount. The comprehensive security review undertaken by Delhi Police, in coordination with other security agencies, demonstrates the government’s commitment to protecting its diplomatic leadership.
The multi-faceted approach to the S Jaishankar security enhancement, encompassing personnel increases, specialized training, and potential technological upgrades, represents a holistic security strategy. As these measures are implemented, they will contribute to maintaining operational continuity in India’s foreign policy apparatus during challenging geopolitical circumstances.
