The Finance Ministry has approved a proposal by the Home Ministry to provide additional allowances to Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel involved in VVIP security. However, the approval only applies to personnel protecting Z+ and Z+ (ASL) category protectees, meaning that only the security personnel for the Gandhi family will receive the allowance. The decision has sparked controversy, as CISF and ITBP personnel responsible for protecting high-risk individuals in X and Y categories will not be eligible. The limited scope of the approved proposal has raised concerns about the fairness and efficacy of the decision.
VVIP Security: Allowances and Controversies
In a recent development, the Finance Ministry has approved a proposal to provide additional allowances to Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel involved in VVIP security. However, the approval only applies to personnel protecting "Z+" and "Z+" (ASL) category protectees, which includes the Gandhi family.
Background
VVIP security in India has been a matter of concern for decades, with high-profile individuals often facing threats and attacks. The protection of VVIPs is typically handled by specialized security forces, including the CRPF, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).
In recent years, the security arrangements for the Gandhi family have been a particular focus. Following the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1984, her family has been provided with extensive security cover. Z+ security, the highest level of protection, is provided by the CRPF.
The Allowance Controversy
The Finance Ministry's approval to provide additional allowances only to CRPF personnel guarding "Z+" and "Z+" (ASL) category protectees has sparked controversy. Critics argue that the decision is unfair, as CISF and ITBP personnel who protect high-risk individuals in "X" and "Y" categories will not receive the allowance.
CISF protects individuals and infrastructure such as airports, metro stations, and nuclear power plants. ITBP guards vulnerable border areas and also provides security to high-risk individuals.
Concerns and Questions
The decision has raised concerns about the following:
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is eligible for the additional allowance? Only CRPF personnel protecting "Z+" and "Z+" (ASL) category protectees are eligible.
2. Why is the allowance only for CRPF personnel? The reason for this is unclear.
3. How much is the allowance? The amount of the allowance has not been disclosed.
4. What are the concerns about the decision? Concerns include fairness, efficacy, and morale.
5. What is the government's response to the controversy? The government has not yet commented publicly on the controversy.
Conclusion
The decision to provide additional allowances only to a select group of CRPF personnel has raised numerous questions and concerns. The government needs to provide a clear explanation for this decision and address the concerns of other security personnel involved in VVIP protection. Ultimately, the security of all high-risk individuals in India must be a priority.
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