New Delhi: Arun Kumar Sinha, the Director of the Special Protection Group (SPG), passed away at the age of 61 at a Gurugram hospital on Wednesday. Sinha, a 1987 batch Kerala cadre IPS officer, was responsible for providing proximate security to the Prime Minister of India.

He had recently been granted a one-year extension in service until May 31. Sinha had been admitted to a multi-speciality hospital in Gurugram for treatment prior to his passing.

The SPG, tasked with providing proximate armed security cover to the Prime Minister, played a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's leadership.

Arun Kumar Sinha had served in various capacities within his cadre state, Kerala, and with the Border Security Force (BSF) at the central level before being appointed as the 12th director of the SPG in March 2016.

The Indian Police Service (IPS) association expressed their condolences, stating, "Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of Shri Arun Kumar Sinha. His unwavering commitment to duty and exemplary leadership will forever inspire us. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. May his soul find eternal peace."

The SPG, established in 1985, currently consists of an estimated 3,000 personnel dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of high-profile individuals, including the Prime Minister.

This loss is deeply felt within the IPS community and across the nation.