Why did the Central govt increase CEC Rajiv Kumar's security?

Ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Central government has upgraded the security cover of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar to the 'Z' category. This decision, based on a threat perception report, involves deploying approximately 40-45 armed commandos from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to ensure the safety of CEC Kumar.

Also Read: Chief Election Commissioner of India Provided Z Category

Enhanced Security Measures for CEC Rajiv Kumar

Under the 'Z' security cover, the Ministry of Home Affairs has entrusted the CRPF with the responsibility of deploying a contingent of armed commandos to accompany CEC Kumar during his official engagements and travels across the country. This comprehensive security detail includes 10 armed static guards stationed at Kumar's residence, six personal security officers providing round-the-clock protection, and 12 armed commandos working in three shifts to escort him. Additionally, two watchers per shift and three trained drivers are on standby to ensure Kumar's safety at all times.

Decision Based on Threat Perception Report
The decision to upgrade the security cover of CEC Rajiv Kumar comes after central security agencies prepared a threat perception report, which recommended robust security measures for him. According to sources at the Union Home Ministry, the Ministry of Home Affairs sanctioned Z category security for the Chief Election Commissioner based on an intelligence report from the Intelligence Bureau (IB). They did not share the specifics of IB's threat perception report.

Significance of the Upgrade
The upgrade in security cover for Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar is significant, particularly in light of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections scheduled to begin from April 19. The move reflects the government's proactive approach to addressing potential threats and ensuring the smooth conduct of the electoral process.

Rajiv Kumar's Background
Rajiv Kumar, a retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the 1984 batch, assumed the role of the 25th Chief Election Commissioner on May 15, 2022. He previously served as an election commissioner in the poll body, having been appointed to the position on September 1, 2020.

The upgrade in security cover for Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar to the 'Z' category underscores the government's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of key officials during crucial periods like elections. With the Lok Sabha elections just around the corner, such measures are essential to maintaining peace and order during the electoral process.