New Delhi: The Central government has enhanced the security cover of External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, adding an additional bulletproof vehicle to his convoy following fresh threat assessments amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions.
Jaishankar, 69, currently under Z-category armed protection by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), will now benefit from this upgraded security measure to safeguard his nationwide travel and engagements.
Sources confirmed that the CRPF made this decision based on a recent evaluation of security threats post Operation Sindoor—India’s retaliatory military response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 civilians.
“The threat matrix for senior leadership was re-evaluated after India’s cross-border strikes. Dr. Jaishankar’s diplomatic role and visibility made the enhanced protection essential,” a senior official said.
Security Escalation Timeline
- October 2024: Jaishankar’s security was upgraded from Y-category to Z-category, transferring his protection from Delhi Police to CRPF.
- May 2025: Following Operation Sindoor, the CRPF assessed increased threat levels, especially after Pakistan’s retaliation through cross-border shelling and drone incursions.
- Now: An additional bulletproof vehicle has been added to the EAM’s convoy.
CRPF VIP Protection Scope
The CRPF VIP Security Wing is tasked with protecting over 210 high-profile individuals, including:
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah
- Union Minister Nitin Gadkari
- The Dalai Lama
- Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra
Jaishankar’s protection detail includes more than a dozen armed commandos, round-the-clock surveillance, and coordination with state security during his visits.
Background: Operation Sindoor & Rising Threats
India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting multiple terror camps and infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK linked to groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen. Over 100 terrorists were reportedly neutralized. Pakistan retaliated with airspace violations, drone attacks, and shelling, further escalating tensions.
On May 10, both nations agreed to a cessation of hostilities, but security agencies remain on high alert.