Why Did Amit Shah Remove SPG Cover from the Gandhi Family?
Amit Shah, the leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), recently removed the Special Protection Group (SPG) cover from the Gandhi family, a decision rooted in security assessments and financial considerations. This decision reflects a broader discussion on the rationality and efficiency of providing VIP security and the status symbols associated with such coverage.
Context of the Decision
The Evolution of SPG Cover: SPG cover has traditionally been reserved for the Prime Minister and the President of India. However, security threats to individuals are reevaluated regularly, and the protection level is adjusted accordingly. As of now, the Gandhi family has been provided with Z-plus security, a level just below the highest available, based on the prevailing threat perceptions. It's important to note that their security has not been withdrawn; it has simply been reclassified.
Historical and Recent Context
Alikhan Gouraswamy Krishna Murthy’s Inscription: In a recent statement, Alikhan Gouraswamy Krishna Murthy highlighted instances where members of the Gandhi family did not accept SPG cover, particularly during international trips. This was often due to personal reasons such as seeking privacy, indicating that the family doesn't always opt for the highest level of protection.
Additionally, he pointed out that the Gandhi family has often not adhered to the protocols set out by the SPG, which they themselves have established. Rajiv Gandhi, a former prime minister, even ignored warnings from Prime Minister Chandrashekhar regarding these protocols.
Considering these points, which span over three decades, one can appreciate Amit Shah's rationale behind the decision to remove the SPG cover from the Gandhi family.
Security Assessments and Financial Considerations
Security Reevaluation: The security of VIPs is rigorously assessed by top security officials in the country. Based on these assessments, the security level is adjusted to match the perceived threat. In a recent review, the decision was made to replace SPG cover with Z cover, a level just below the highest available.
Civilian Needs vs. VIP Protection: A major concern raised by critics is the allocation of resources. Critics argue that politicians and bureaucrats often receive extensive protection, leaving resources scarce for those who truly need them, such as civilians. This is a significant issue, especially when the majority of the police force is engaged in providing protection, often at the expense of other public services.
The removal of SPG cover for the Gandhi family is seen as a step toward addressing this imbalance. The BJP, under the leadership of Amit Shah, is attempting to prioritize resources and ensure that the security provided is appropriate and based on genuine need, rather than status or tradition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decision to remove SPG cover from the Gandhi family is multifaceted, encompassing security reassessments, financial considerations, and a shift towards more rational allocation of resources. This move marks a significant shift in how VIP protection is managed in India, with a focus on ensuring that protection is commensurate with the actual threat level.