In January 2025, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced the disbandment of the Central Reserve Police Force’s (CRPF) Parliament Duty Group (PDG). This decision followed the withdrawal of the PDG from Parliament security in May 2024. The personnel from the PDG, numbering approximately 1,400, have been merged into the VIP Security Group (VSG) of the CRPF. This restructuring aims to enhance the security provided to high-profile individuals in India.
Background of the PDG and Its Role
The PDG was responsible for the security of the Indian Parliament. It operated with a high level of dedication and professionalism. However, the group faced criticism following security breach in December 2023. This incident involved two individuals who infiltrated the Lok Sabha chamber, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the PDG. As a result, the MHA decided to transfer the security responsibilities to the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
Transition to VIP Security Group
The transition of personnel from the PDG to the VSG marks shift in security strategy. The VSG is now tasked with protecting over 200 high-risk dignitaries, including prominent political figures. The recent addition of a new battalion, with over 1,000 personnel, has expanded the VSG’s capabilities. This battalion was previously engaged in anti-Naxal operations in Jharkhand before its reassignment.
Implications for Security Measures
The merging of the PDG into the VSG marks the evolving nature of security in India. The VIP security wing now boasts more than 8,000 personnel, reflecting the increasing demands of protecting influential individuals. The expansion of this unit indicates a proactive approach towards addressing security challenges. The CRPF aims to ensure the safety of high-profile individuals amidst rising threats.
Future of CRPF and Security Dynamics
The restructuring of the CRPF’s units raises questions about the future of parliamentary security and the overall security landscape in India. The withdrawal of the PDG from Parliament signifies a shift in focus towards VIP protection. The effectiveness of this new arrangement will be closely monitored, particularly in light of recent security incidents.
Official Statements and Reactions
Senior officers within the CRPF have expressed regret over the disbandment of the PDG. They acknowledged the group’s dedication and effectiveness in its role at Parliament. Despite the challenges faced, the transition aims to boost security for VIPs, which is increasingly crucial in the current climate of threats.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of recent security breaches on the restructuring of security forces in India.
- What are the implications of merging the Parliament Duty Group with the VIP Security Group in terms of operational efficiency?
- Explain the role of the Central Reserve Police Force in maintaining internal security in India.
- With suitable examples, comment on the challenges faced by security agencies in protecting high-profile individuals in India.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of recent security breaches on the restructuring of security forces in India.
- Recent security breaches, such as the December 2023 incident in Parliament, raised concerns about the effectiveness of existing security protocols.
- The breaches prompted the Ministry of Home Affairs to re-evaluate the roles and responsibilities of security units like the PDG.
- Restructuring aims to enhance security measures by merging groups to better allocate resources and personnel.
- Increased scrutiny and a shift towards specialized security units reflect a proactive approach to emerging threats.
- Overall, these changes signify a response to public and governmental pressure for improved security in sensitive areas.
2. What are the implications of merging the Parliament Duty Group with the VIP Security Group in terms of operational efficiency?
- The merger aims to streamline operations by consolidating resources, reducing redundancy in security duties.
- With the addition of over 1,000 personnel from the PDG, the VSG can enhance its protective capabilities for high-risk dignitaries.
- Operational efficiency is expected to improve through better coordination and training among personnel focused on VIP security.
- The transition reflects a strategic shift in focus from parliamentary security to prioritizing the safety of influential individuals.
- Increased manpower allows for more comprehensive coverage and quicker response times to security threats.
3. Explain the role of the Central Reserve Police Force in maintaining internal security in India.
- The CRPF is primarily responsible for maintaining law and order in various internal security scenarios, including insurgency and communal violence.
- It provides security for high-profile events, VIPs, and critical infrastructure, ensuring public safety across the nation.
- The force is also involved in anti-Naxal operations, showcasing its role in counter-insurgency efforts in affected regions.
- Training and deploying personnel for emergency situations, such as riots or terrorist attacks, is a key function of the CRPF.
- Through various units, the CRPF collaborates with state police and other security agencies to ensure a cohesive security framework.
4. With suitable examples, comment on the challenges faced by security agencies in protecting high-profile individuals in India.
- Security agencies face challenges such as evolving threats from terrorism, as seen in the 2023 Parliament breach, which tests their preparedness.
- Limited resources and manpower can hinder the ability to provide adequate protection, particularly during large public events.
- Coordination among multiple agencies (e.g., CRPF, CISF) can be complex, leading to potential gaps in security coverage.
- Public scrutiny and media attention increase pressure on security agencies to respond effectively, often under tight timelines.
- Instances of insider threats and breaches of protocol further complicate the task of ensuring the safety of high-profile individuals.
