The Central Reserve Police Force has raised red flags over repeated breaches of security protocol by Rahul Gandhi during his foreign travels, calling the lapses a matter of “serious concern”.
In separate letters addressed to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and to Rahul Gandhi on September 10, the force warned that such failures in adhering to protective measures weakened the effectiveness of VVIP security arrangements and could expose Gandhi to “potential risks”.
Officials familiar with the matter said Gandhi, who is entitled to the highest ‘Z+’ category security with Advance Security Liaison cover, has failed to consistently observe mandatory procedures during several overseas trips. These included visits to Italy, Vietnam, Dubai, Qatar, London and Malaysia.
Reports have surfaced suggesting Gandhi has left for Malaysia and is currently vacationing there. The Congress party has yet to comment on his travel plans.
Photos of Rahul Gandhi riding pillion on a scooter and waiting in a queue in Layasi have flooded the internet.
According to security guidelines detailed in the “Yellow Book”, those under high-category cover are required to give prior intimation to the designated security wing about their movements, particularly foreign travel, to ensure adequate protective deployment. The CRPF maintained that Gandhi had not always complied with these requirements.
The latest caution follows earlier instances where Gandhi’s security arrangements had come under scrutiny. Security agencies in the past have flagged occasions where he allegedly bypassed established protocol, sparking concerns over potential threats to his safety.
The CRPF has appealed to the Congress leadership to ensure strict adherence to the protocols in the future, underscoring that any lapse has implications not only for the individual’s safety but also for the credibility of the overall security system.
The Congress party has not yet issued a response to the communication.
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