The West Bengal government on Monday downgraded the security cover of Diamond Harbour MP Abhishek Banerjee, removing his Z+ category protection. The decision followed a security review conducted by the Directorate of Security, which concluded that he would now receive only the standard security cover available to Members of Parliament.
Reason for Downgrade
Sources indicated that Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari raised the question during a meeting about why an MP should receive additional security cover at the state's expense. This move comes shortly after visible changes in security arrangements outside the residences of former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee, following the Trinamool Congress's electoral defeat.
Police have already removed peripheral security deployment, dismantled kiosks, scanner machines, and surveillance installations from multiple properties linked to Abhishek Banerjee, including addresses on Harish Mukherjee Road, Kalighat Road, and Camac Street.
Background of Z+ Security
Abhishek Banerjee's security was upgraded to Z+ category in 2015 after he was slapped by an engineering student during a public meeting. The attacker was subsequently assaulted by Trinamool supporters. Z+ security is among the highest protection categories in the country, involving nearly 55 personnel, bulletproof vehicles, and advanced communication systems. In contrast, Z category protection generally involves around 22 personnel and comparatively fewer defensive arrangements.
The downgrade reflects a reassessment of security needs based on current threat perceptions and resource allocation priorities.
