Security Breach: Rahul Gandhi Skips Protocol, CRPF Sounds Alarm

Is Rahul Gandhi overlooking his own safety during his trips abroad, or is this a wild, well-timed allegation leveled with ulterior motives? The answer depends on whom you ask.

In a letter today to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, the CRPF raised concerns about repeated lapses in the Leader of the Opposition's security protocol. The force stated that despite enjoying Z+ cover with an Advance Security Liaison (ASL) team, Rahul Gandhi has skipped mandatory protective measures on several occasions. The CRPF also sent a separate letter directly to Gandhi, warning that these lapses are a serious concern for his safety.

The letter specifically mentioned several of Mr. Gandhi's trips abroad where he reportedly traveled without his security detail. These include a 10-day trip to Italy in December last year, six days in Vietnam in March, followed by visits to Dubai in April, Qatar in June, London for 12 days in June, and Malaysia for five days at the beginning of this month.

The CRPF cautioned that any violation of established protocols during foreign trips weakens the effectiveness of VVIP security arrangements. Under the "Yellow Book" protocol, high-security protectees are required to inform their security wing in advance about all movements. However, on at least six occasions since the beginning of this year, Mr. Gandhi reportedly failed to do so.