Post Operation Sindoor, EAM Jaishankar’s security hightended
In a significant move reflecting heightened security concerns, the Ministry of Home Affairs has upgraded the protective arrangements for External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar by adding more bullet-resistant vehicles to his official convoy.
According to top government sources, this enhancement follows a detailed security review conducted by Central intelligence agencies.
Based on their assessment of potential threats, the agencies recommended bolstering Dr Jaishankar’s convoy with additional bulletproof vehicles. As a result, two bullet-resistant vehicles have been recently inducted into his security fleet.
“The threat perception warranted a reassessment of his security logistics. Accordingly, two bullet-resistant vehicles have been added to the convoy, and other protective measures have also been reinforced. This enhancement is part of a broader effort to ensure a robust security framework for senior Cabinet ministers,” said a senior official familiar with the development.
The timing of this security boost is particularly notable, coming in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor — India’s retaliatory strikes on Pakistan after the Pahalgam attack, which sources say, has led to credible concerns about potential retaliatory threats from hostile actors, including foreign-based extremist elements.
Though the government has not officially linked the enhanced security to any specific threat input, officials acknowledge that ongoing geopolitical tensions and India’s assertive foreign policy posture under Jaishankar have contributed to the reassessment of risk.
This is not the first time Dr Jaishankar’s security has been upgraded. In 2023, after a comprehensive threat analysis, the Ministry of Home Affairs elevated his security status from Y to the Z category — the second-highest tier of VIP protection in India.
Dr Jaishankar’s security is managed by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)’s elite VIP Security Wing, which currently safeguards around 200 high-profile individuals. These include key political figures such as Union Home Minister Amit Shah and members of the Gandhi family — Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.
India’s central VIP protection hierarchy ranges from X (basic cover) up to Z-plus, the most advanced category that includes extensive personnel, escort vehicles, and bulletproof protection. Z category security typically entails a 22-personnel strong detail, including commandos, escort vehicles, and access control protocols during public appearances.
India