In response to the recent assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump, the Central Government has issued a directive to State Director Generals, Union territories, and paramilitary forces to heighten security for high-risk dignitaries. The order asserts on enhanced vigilance, particularly during public engagements such as rallies, corner meetings, and roadshows, according to multiple media reports.
On July 13, Trump was targeted while speaking at a campaign rally near Pennsylvania. A 20-year-old assailant fired eight rounds from an AR-15-style rifle, injuring Trump in his right ear. This incident, among others, has prompted the central government to address what it sees as a rising trend of high-profile assassination attempts, detailed in a July 16 communication.
The directive references several recent attacks on prominent figures:
Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was killed on July 8, 2022, by a homemade shotgun during a public meeting.
Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan was shot at during a road march on November 3, 2022, sustaining a bullet injury.
Argentine Vice-President Christina Fernandez narrowly escaped an assassination attempt on September 1, 2022, when a man tried to shoot her with a loaded pistol.
Japanese PM Fumio Kishida was targeted on April 15, 2023, when a smoke bomb was thrown at him from a crowd.
Ecuadorian Presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio was fatally shot on August 9, 2023.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico was injured in a shooting on May 15 during a public event.
The government’s directive outlines three primary areas for enhancing security:
Physical Security Measures: Enhanced access control at event venues, rigorous checks of people and materials, and restricted access to authorised personnel only. Comprehensive physical, visual, and technical inspections of venues are required, along with securing high-rise vantage points.
Technical Surveillance: Implementation of advanced monitoring and surveillance technologies to detect and address potential threats promptly.
Contingency Drills: Development and rehearsal of drills to provide immediate protection, neutralise threats efficiently, and ensure rapid evacuation if necessary. Personal Security Officers (PSOs) are to maintain constant vigilance, maintain a 360-degree awareness of their environment, and respond swiftly to any threats.
