CEC Gyanesh Kumar Reunites With Former Gunman During Kochi Visit

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar’s recent visit to Kerala to review preparations for the upcoming Assembly elections carried a personal moment that drew attention within official circles. During his stay in Kochi, Kumar requested that Sabu Varghese , a former member of his security detail from his days as Ernakulam district collector, be assigned to his security team.

Kumar, a 1988-batch IAS officer of the Kerala cadre and currently India’s 26th Chief Election Commissioner , was in Kochi from March 5 to 7 to assess the state’s readiness for the Assembly polls. His meetings with state election officials focused on reviewing logistical arrangements, polling infrastructure, voter facilitation measures and security coordination ahead of the elections.

However, the visit also revived memories from Kumar’s administrative tenure in Kerala more than two decades ago. He had served as the Ernakulam district collector between 2001 and 2004 , during which time Varghese worked in his security team.

Officials said Varghese had first joined the collector’s security detail in 2002 , temporarily replacing the regular gunman who was on leave. Impressed by his dedication and professionalism, Kumar asked that Varghese continue in the role even after the regular officer returned. Varghese remained part of Kumar’s security arrangement until the latter completed his tenure as district collector in 2004.

Now working as a liaison officer at Kochi airport , Varghese said he felt honoured by the Chief Election Commissioner’s gesture. During the visit, Kumar reportedly introduced him to officials as someone he regarded “like a brother,” reflecting the close professional bond they developed during those years.

The reunion also included a personal exchange. As Kumar prepared to leave Kochi, Varghese presented him with an old family photograph taken during the period when Kumar served in Ernakulam. Kumar, in turn, invited Varghese and his family to visit New Delhi , and assured him that he would bring along his grandchildren the next time he travels to Kerala.

Alongside the official review meetings, Kumar also took time to visit several public facilities and infrastructure projects that had been developed or renovated during his tenure as district collector , reflecting on the changes the district has witnessed since then.

Kerala’s election preparations are being closely monitored by the Election Commission of India , with authorities working to strengthen transparency and voter accessibility. Measures under consideration include enhanced digital grievance platforms, wider monitoring through webcasting at polling stations, and special arrangements to assist senior citizens and persons with disabilities , including home-voting options for elderly voters.

Officials said the interaction between Kumar and Varghese highlighted the enduring relationships often formed during public service, even as the Chief Election Commissioner focused on reviewing the administrative and logistical arrangements necessary to ensure that the upcoming elections in Kerala are conducted smoothly and transparently.