Ravi Sinha appointed as new RAW chief, tackling Sikh extremism and ethnic violence priority
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Ravi Sinha, a senior IPS officer from the Chhattisgarh cadre, has been appointed as the new Chief of India's premier intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW). Sinha, currently the second in command at RAW, will succeed Samant Goel, with his tenure commencing on July 1.
The appointment comes at a critical juncture as Sinha faces immediate challenges like Sikh extremism and ethnic violence in Manipur.
Ravi Sinha, a 1988 batch IPS officer, has a distinguished background in intelligence operations and a nuanced understanding of sensitive issues such as Jammu and Kashmir, the Northeast, and Left Wing Extremism (LWE). Having headed the operational division of RAW for the past seven years, Sinha is known for his expertise in incorporating modern technology into intelligence collection, reported NDTV.
The decision to appoint Sinha as RAW Chief underscores the government's emphasis on bolstering the operational capabilities of intelligence agencies. The Intelligence Bureau (IB), RAW's counterpart tasked with domestic intelligence, is also headed by an officer with an operations background. Tapan Deka, Sinha's batchmate, has been leading the IB's operations for several years.
With his appointment, Ravi Sinha aims to integrate technological advancements and human intelligence to effectively tackle the evolving security landscape. His extensive experience and comprehensive knowledge of regional developments, including Jammu and Kashmir, the Northeast, and Left Wing Extremism, make him a respected figure within the intelligence community.
"Ravi Sinha who prefers to maintain a low profile, in line with his job, is a widely respected figure across all the intelligence community for his professional competence. He has worked on a wide range of fields and brings to his new role a significant bank of experience and knowledge. He is known to have a sound grip on neighbourhood developments, besides J&K, North East, and Left Wing Extremists domains where he has served at different points in time," said a source close to the matter to NDTV.
Meanwhile, Samant Kumar Goel, the incumbent RAW Chief, will conclude his successful tenure on June 30. Goel, a 1984 batch IPS officer from the Punjab cadre, played a key role in planning India's surgical strike in Balakot, Pakistan, in 2019, as a response to the Pulwama attack. With two extensions in his tenure, Goel has led RAW for a total of four years.
As Ravi Sinha assumes his new responsibilities, his appointment signifies the government's commitment to ensuring a strong and capable intelligence apparatus. With Sinha's leadership, RAW aims to effectively address challenges related to Sikh extremism and ethnic violence, safeguarding national security and regional stability.