The absence of an Indian ambassador to Saudi Arabia is emerging as a major sticking point, given that smooth relations between the two nations are of critical importance to India.
While the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has shortlisted names for the post, The Quint has learned that Mumbai Police Commissioner Ahmed Javed is also being considered. Sources tell us that even Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has been pushing his candidature.
The position fell vacant after the exit of the previous Indian ambassador, Hamid Ali Rao, who occupied the post from September 2011 to April 2015.
Why Javed for the Post?
Ahmed Javed, a 1980 IPS cadre officer, is due to retire in January 2016. Sources in the MEA tell us they don’t quite know why Ahmed’s name has been put forward for a post that is usually held only by career diplomats. One reason could be that the PMO is keen on appointing an IPS officer.
An IPS officer would have better understanding of counter-terrorism and security issues. That’s why Ahmed Javed could be the first choice of the Government.
— Government Source to The Quint
Yet another reason, sources say, is that PM Modi will go with only those who are cleared by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, who as the former chief of the Intelligence Bureau, will be familiar with Javed’s record. The Quint learned that the Maharashtra Chief Minister for one is confident that the Mumbai top cop will get the post.
When The Quint contacted Ahmed Javed however, he did not respond.
Other Names for Saudi Arabia Envoy
Other names said to be in the running for the post are Naved Masood, who recently retired as Secretary, Ministry of Corporate Affairs. Jawed Ashraf, a joint secretary-level officer who reportedly handles Modi’s speeches is another name. Yet another possibility is A Sayeed who is serving as the Counsel General of India in Chicago. He was earlier the Counsel General in Jeddah and the Ambassador to Yemen.
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