The race to appoint the next Chief Airport Security Officer (CASO) at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), New Delhi, has intensified, with IPS officer Sanjay Kumar Sain emerging as the frontrunner. A 2011-batch officer from the AGMUT cadre, Mr. Sain was recently deputed to the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) from Delhi Police.
Leadership Transition Expected
The current CASO, Senthil Avudai Krishna Raj S., a 2007-batch IPS officer from the Uttarakhand cadre, was recently promoted to the rank of Inspector General (IG). While he continues to hold the CASO post for now, his elevation has fueled speculation that he may soon be reassigned to a senior role in his home state of Tamil Nadu.
Sanjay Kumar Sain: Decorated and Experienced
Originally from Shahpura, Rajasthan, Mr. Sain has served as Additional Commissioner of Police in Delhi and is widely respected for his investigative expertise. His accolades include:
President’s Gallantry Medal
Excellence in Investigation Award
State Gold Medal
FICCI Smart Policing Award
CP Commendation Disc
He notably led the investigation into the 2020 Delhi riots, which he described as one of the most demanding assignments of his career.
Strategic Fit for IGI Airport
Mr. Sain’s familiarity with Delhi’s policing framework—including the Airport Police and Immigration Bureau—positions him as a strong candidate for the CASO role. His deputation to CISF, coupled with the presence of AGMUT cadre officer Praveer Ranjan as Additional Director General of the CISF Airport Sector, further strengthens his prospects for a smooth transition.
Babu Ram: Another Contender
Also in contention is Babu Ram, a Bihar cadre IPS officer currently serving as DIG, Tirhut Range, Bihar. Originally from Yamuna Nagar, Haryana, Mr. Ram has also been deputed to CISF. His candidacy gains weight given that CISF Director General R.S. Bhatti hails from the same cadre. However, Mr. Sain’s operational experience in Delhi and established rapport with civil aviation stakeholders may give him an edge.
Internal Discontent and Broader Implications
The trend of appointing IPS officers to senior airport security roles has sparked discontent among CISF cadre officers, particularly those at the DIG level. Many feel sidelined as top positions continue to be filled by officers from other services.
Awaiting Final Decision
The final call on the CASO appointment rests with CISF Headquarters and the Ministry of Home Affairs. Whether Mr. Raj continues in the role or a new officer—such as Mr. Sain or Mr. Ram—is appointed, the decision will be closely watched given IGI Airport’s strategic and national security significance.
