Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday hit out at the ‘VIP’ culture in the country, saying that it often obstructs security forces in the dispensation of their duty, causing security risk at times.
On the occasion of 50th Raising Day of CISF at Indirapuram of this Uttar Pradesh district, Mr Modi said ‘People like me often cause problems to security forces at places like airports, while they are doing their duty.’
Referring to an old experience, he said once he was travelling at one of the airports along with a politician, who did not feel comfortable after he had to go through the security check, being a senior political leader.Later, Mr Modi while talking to him, had to convince him that such checking was nothing, but a normal drill carried out by the personnel, in view of security.
Some of the VIPs do not hesitate in showing off their ego during security checks, which hinders the security personnel from doing their duty, often causing security risks.
‘Giving protection to one man is quite easy as compared to protecting over 30 lakh passengers at various metro stations and seven to eight lakh at different airports,’ the Prime Minister pointed out.
Mr Modi appreciated efforts of the force in the past and the present and the way it has evolved with time and the challenges.
The Prime Minister also suggested that places like airports and metro stations should have a museum dedicated to CISF that can help showcase as to how the force functions 24X7 and protects the institutions and resources. Their duty is a lot more than just performing security checks, he added.
The Prime Minister also laid a wreath at the Martyr’s Memorial. He also gave away the Police and Fire Service Medals for distinguished and meritorious services to the personnel, on the occasion.
During his address, Director General of CISF Rajesh Ranjan said the force was raised in 1969 and has more than 1.5 lakh personnel, who provide security to vital installations that include 61 airports, seaports, Delhi Metro, power plants and other institutions.
Minister of State for External Affairs Retd General V K Singh, apart from Ministers of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju and Hansraj Gangaram Ahir, were also present on the occasion.
