The home department and police headquarters in Patna have taken decisive steps to significantly enhance the security cover for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. This move involves facilitating his movement in bulletproof SUVs following the assessment of a fresh security threat. The decision underscores the ongoing vigilance required to protect high-profile political figures in the state.
Delivery and Deployment of Bulletproof Vehicles
A senior officer at the state headquarters revealed that while 16 SUVs have already been delivered, four additional bulletproof SUVs are expected to arrive shortly, though they may take some more time. The officer emphasized that the assessment of threat perception to the CM's security is conducted periodically to ensure proactive measures are in place.
Cost and Allocation Concerns
Officials have chosen not to disclose the exact cost of these vehicles, maintaining a veil of confidentiality around the procurement details. However, unconfirmed sources suggest that over Rs 11 crore will be spent on acquiring the four bulletproof SUVs. There is ongoing deliberation regarding whether all four vehicles will be exclusively deployed for the CM or if they will be shared with the two deputy chief ministers, adding a layer of complexity to the security arrangements.
Political Reactions and Public Image
The main opposition party, RJD, has reacted cautiously to this development. RJD state spokesperson Chitranjan Gagan expressed concerns, stating, "Bihar is still a poor state with a very low per capita income. News that the CM will be travelling in a bulletproof SUV sounds strange." He further suggested that the decision appears to have been driven by the BJP, part of the ruling alliance, and could potentially affect CM Nitish Kumar's public image, given his reputation for a simple lifestyle.
Historical Context of Security Upgrades
Over the past 15 years, the security measures around the CM and his official residence have been tightened on three notable occasions. The first instance occurred in August 2010 following a police encounter with CPI (Maoist) cadres in the hills of Lakhisarai district, which resulted in the tragic loss of seven police personnel.
Security was further intensified in December 2011 after Maoists put up posters in parts of Aurangabad district, threatening to blow up the CM's cavalcade during his 'Sewa Yatra'. In response, the state government, with cabinet approval, established the Special Security Group (SSG) to provide enhanced protection to the CM.
Subsequently, in November 2017, the strength of the SSG was increased to extend special security cover not only to the CM and his official residence but also to former chief ministers, including Lalu Prasad, Rabri Devi, and Jagannath Mishra. These historical upgrades highlight the evolving nature of security threats and the continuous efforts to safeguard key political figures in Bihar.
