Rajasthan Government Slashes Security Detail of Independent MLA Ravindra Singh Bhati
In a significant development, the Rajasthan state government has substantially reduced the security protection afforded to Independent MLA from Sheo, Ravindra Singh Bhati. The order, executed on Friday, withdraws three out of his four personal security officers (PSOs), leaving the legislator with just a single gunman for his protection.
Official Order Cites Intelligence and State Policy
The directive was formally issued by the Barmer superintendent of police on April 13. It explicitly references specific intelligence inputs and the established state policy governing security provisions for elected representatives. The order clarifies that, according to government regulations, every Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) and Member of Parliament (MP) is entitled to only one PSO. This policy justification formed the basis for the withdrawal of Bhati's additional security personnel.
Political Speculation and Allegations of Retaliation
The timing of this security reduction has ignited considerable political speculation. The move came merely a day after MLA Bhati actively participated in the "Oran Bachao" protest in Jaipur. Bhati himself has strongly alleged that the order was issued with a backdated effect and described the action as a direct "side effect" of his protest involvement.
He has openly accused the Bhajan Lal Sharma-led state government of employing pressure tactics against him. Bhati has been a vocal critic of the Sharma administration in the state assembly, frequently raising contentious issues such as pasture land disputes, Oran land concerns, operations of solar companies, and an extortion case involving a trader from Kishangarh.
Background of Enhanced Security and Immediate Withdrawal
Notably, Ravindra Singh Bhati had been granted enhanced security cover during the intense period of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This upgrade was implemented following specific intelligence regarding death threats received by the MLA, underscoring a previously assessed risk to his safety.
The superintendent of police's order mandates the immediate withdrawal of all additional PSOs and guards deployed with Bhati. The sole exception is constable Jalam Singh, who will remain as his single security detail. The withdrawn personnel were ordered to report to the police line in Barmer without delay.
The official communication is grounded in referenced documents, including communications from the Additional Director General of Police (Intelligence), Rajasthan, dated April 10, and a subsequent order from the state's Home Department issued on April 7.
