Sensitive protectee details mistakenly disclosed in court by Delhi Police

This unintentional disclosure is a potential security lapse that may compromise the safety of these individuals

- ABHINANDAN MISHRA

While filing a response to a contempt petition, the Delhi Police submitted details in the High Court about the addresses of protectees under its security cover, including the number of police officers assigned to them. The list includes those who were granted protection due to potential threats to their lives. This unintentional disclosure is a potential security lapse that may compromise the safety of these individuals.

Notably, documents submitted to the court are classified records but are treated as public once filed. The annexures submitted by Delhi Police officials included a district-wise list of protectees, detailing which individuals should continue receiving security cover and which should have their protection withdrawn, as per an official order from the Delhi Police Commissioner's office. This filing contained sensitive information, including the exact addresses of protectees, their movement patterns, and specific security measures, which could heighten their vulnerability if accessed by those with harmful intent.