Intel on Rajiv Gandhi's assassination went missing after his death; An INSIDE story

New Delhi: An expert on security matters unveiled a startling revelation, shedding light on the disappearance of crucial intelligence shared between Israel and India following the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991. The revelation underscores a significant instance where political dynamics overshadowed vital security cooperation between nations.

Loss of critical intelligence

During a discussion organized by the Usanas Foundation, security expert Namit Verma highlighted the gravity of the situation, revealing that Israel had provided India with transcripts regarding potential threats to Rajiv Gandhi's life. However, post the tragic assassination, these transcripts vanished, raising questions about their significance and implications.

Verma emphasized the pivotal role India played as a conduit between the United States and the Soviet Union during that era. Rajiv Gandhi's involvement in diplomatic communications further underscores the importance of the shared intelligence.

Political interference in intelligence sharing

Verma underscored the detrimental impact of political interference on intelligence sharing, citing the failure to retrieve the lost transcripts as a glaring example. Despite efforts to reconstruct the material, Israel did not furnish another copy, highlighting the intricate interplay between politics and security cooperation among nations.

Changing global dynamics

The discussion illuminated how shifting global dynamics and geopolitical challenges often disrupt established intelligence channels. Verma emphasized the urgency of addressing security concerns promptly, especially in the face of evolving threats.

Why did the transcripts went missing?

The missing transcripts purportedly contained crucial information about financial transactions related to the threat against Rajiv Gandhi's life. Verma highlighted the urgency conveyed through the transcripts and the subsequent failure to provide adequate security measures, which could have averted the tragic outcome.

Insights from Israeli experts

The discussion, attended by Israeli security experts Joseph Rozen and Kobe Michael, provided valuable insights into the complexities of intelligence cooperation and security challenges in the modern world.

The revelation of the missing transcripts serves as a stark reminder of the intricate balance between political interests and national security, urging policymakers to prioritize robust intelligence-sharing mechanisms despite evolving global landscapes.