Intelligence EDGP urges stronger security for CM Satheesan at public events

The Intelligence EDGP has advised district police chiefs to tighten security for Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan at all public appearances. The advice comes after crowds have repeatedly moved close to the CM, some even touching him, creating a need for heightened vigilance. Officials were told to deploy not only uniformed police but also maffiti personnel and other officials at event venues and during the CM’s travel. Opposition parties have been seen waving black flags at the Chief Minister’s rallies, prompting police to stress the importance of extra protection. Despite the recommendation, the CM maintains that a pilot and escort vehicles alone are sufficient for his safety. In a separate development, Satheesan expressed frustration with media coverage after an Idukki review meeting, asking reporters to step back and instructing police to remove them from his vicinity. He also defended his use of a chartered flight, saying it was arranged by a Malayali individual and caused no loss to the state treasury, and said he would accept sponsorship if needed. The CM further justified the use of a private vehicle for ministers’ foreign trips and for official duties of K.M. Shaji, describing these arrangements as necessary for official purposes.

Context

The recommendation reflects growing concerns over crowd control at political rallies in Kerala, where public figures often face close contact from supporters. Such security upgrades are common when opposition protests intensify, aiming to prevent accidental harm while balancing public access.