Kolkata police have withdrawn the additional security arrangements that were in place outside the residence and office of Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abhishek Banerjee. The decision came after a formal review of the security protocols, leading to the removal of barricades and the cessation of advance route checks and traffic clearance for Banerjee's movements.
Details of the Security Review
The formal review prompted the withdrawal of extra police deployment and area security measures that had been established around Banerjee's home on Harish Mukherjee Road and his office. Despite these changes, Banerjee continues to receive Z-category police protection, which remains intact. This high-level security grading ensures that he is still guarded by a significant police presence, though the specific arrangements that were scaled back are no longer in effect.
Changes in Security Protocol
As part of the revised protocol, no police vehicle will now conduct advance route checks or ensure traffic clearance ahead of Banerjee's movement. These measures were previously part of the enhanced security detail but have been deemed unnecessary following the review. The core Z-category protection, however, has not been altered.
Removal of Barricades
The scissor barricade that was stationed outside Banerjee's Harish Mukherjee Road residence has been removed. However, the police cabin that was set up at the location remains intact, indicating that some level of security presence continues. This removal is part of the broader scaling back of visible security measures.
Similar Action for Mamata Banerjee
In a parallel move, the scissor barricade at the entry road for outgoing Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was also removed on Tuesday. This suggests a coordinated review of security arrangements for top TMC leaders, possibly in response to changing threat assessments or resource allocation.
Existing Security Grading Maintained
It is important to note that Abhishek Banerjee's Z-category police protection has not been downgraded. The revised arrangements only affect the additional layers of security that were previously in place. This distinction ensures that Banerjee still receives a high level of protection, albeit with a more streamlined approach.
These developments come at a time when security protocols for VIPs are being reassessed in Kolkata, reflecting a balance between ensuring safety and minimizing disruptions to public life. The police have not provided further details on the criteria used for the review, but it is clear that the changes are aimed at optimizing resources without compromising core security needs.
