New Delhi: The appointment of the next Chief Airport Security Officer (CASO) at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), New Delhi, has sparked intense speculation within the corridors of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). Among the leading contenders is Sanjay Kumar Sain, a 2011-batch IPS officer of the AGMUT cadre, who was recently deputed to CISF from Delhi Police.
The position, currently held by Senthil Avudai Krishna Raj S., a 2007-batch IPS officer from the Uttarakhand cadre, is expected to open up as Raj is likely to take up a higher responsibility following his recent promotion to the rank of Inspector General (IG).
Sanjay Kumar Sain: A Proven Track Record
Mr Sain, originally from Shahpura in Rajasthan, is a decorated officer of the Delhi Police, where he previously served as Additional Commissioner of Police.
Known for his sharp investigative acumen, Mr Sain has been recognized with multiple honors, including–
- President’s Gallantry Medal
- Excellence in Investigation Award
- State Gold Medal
- FICCI Smart Policing Award
- CP Commendation Disc
He played a significant role in investigating the Delhi riots of 2020, which he has described as one of the most challenging assignments of his career.
Why Sain Stands Out
Mr Sain’s recent deputation to CISF has strengthened speculation that he may be in line to succeed as CASO at IGI. His deep familiarity with the Delhi policing ecosystem – including the Airport Police and Immigration Bureau, both under Delhi Police – positions him as a strategic choice. Additionally, the Additional Director General of the CISF Airport Sector, Praveer Ranjan, is also from the AGMUT cadre, further enhancing Sain’s chances for a seamless transition and coordination.
The Other Contender: Babu Ram
Another name in consideration is Babu Ram, a Bihar cadre IPS officer originally from Yamuna Nagar, Haryana. He is currently posted as DIG, Tirhut Range, Bihar, and has also been deputed to CISF. His candidacy is being watched closely, especially given that CISF DG R.S. Bhatti is also from the Bihar cadre. However, Sain’s operational experience in Delhi and strong rapport with civil aviation security stakeholders may tilt the balance in his favor.
A Rare Tenure for IG Senthil Avudai Krishna Raj S.
The current CASO, Senthil Avudai Krishna Raj S., was initially posted as DIG, Airport Sector in January 2025 and took over as CASO of IGI Airport last month following the repatriation of Jitendra Rana to his parent Bihar cadre. On June 12, 2025, Raj was promoted to IG rank, marking a first in IGI’s history where an officer of that rank has led the airport’s security operations.
Despite his promotion, a CISF order confirmed that he would continue in the CASO role for now. However, there is growing anticipation that he may soon be reassigned to a senior post in his home state of Tamil Nadu, potentially opening the door for a new CASO.
Discontent Among CISF Cadre Officers
The ongoing trend of deputing IPS officers to senior airport security roles has led to visible disappointment among CISF cadre officers, particularly those at the DIG level. The last few appointments at IGI have increasingly favored IPS officers from other services and states, sidelining long-serving CISF officers for top-tier roles.
What’s Next?
The final decision on the CASO appointment lies with the CISF Headquarters and Ministry of Home Affairs. Whether Senthil Raj continues to serve in the role post-promotion or a new officer like Sanjay Kumar Sain or Babu Ram takes charge, the selection will be closely watched given the strategic and national security importance of IGI Airport, India’s busiest international aviation hub.
