Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Central government has enhanced the security cover of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar by deploying an additional bulletproof vehicle in his convoy, amid growing security threats linked to rising India-Pakistan tensions, sources said on Wednesday.
Security upgraded following threat assessment
Jaishankar, who currently enjoys Z-category protection provided by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), will now be accompanied by a reinforced vehicle during his nationwide movements. The CRPF made the decision following a fresh threat assessment prompted by the ongoing geopolitical situation between the two neighbouring countries.
Last year in October, Jaishankar’s security was already upgraded from Y to Z category, transferring protection responsibility from Delhi Police to CRPF. His current detail includes more than 12 armed commandos, making his cover one of the most robust among Indian political figures.
Operation Sindoor and regional escalation
The latest upgrade comes after Operation Sindoor, launched by Indian armed forces on May 7, in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. The operation reportedly neutralised over 100 terrorists affiliated with Pakistan-based outfits such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
India’s military strikes targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), including communication centres, radar facilities, and airfields across 11 Pakistani airbases.
Retaliation and ceasefire
Pakistan responded with cross-border shelling and attempted drone attacks in Jammu & Kashmir and Punjab sectors. Following this escalation, both nations announced a ceasefire on May 10, temporarily halting hostilities.
CRPF and VIP protection in India
The CRPF currently provides protection to approximately 210 VIPs, including Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, the Dalai Lama, and senior leaders from the Congress such as Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.
Jaishankar’s enhanced security is part of a broader nationwide precautionary measure, as tensions along the Line of Control and broader India-Pakistan relations remain volatile.
