Adityanath’s UP govt downgrades security of Azam Khan, Dimple Yadav
Saturday’s decision follows a VIP security review which found that over 100 politicians enjoyed different layers of security, “much more than desired”.
The Uttar Pradesh government has pruned the VIP security cover given to several top politicians, especially Samajwadi Party leaders such as Azam Khan, Dimple Yadav and other Yadav family members.
Though the Z-plus security has been maintained for three former chief ministers Mulayam Singh Yadav, Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav, the security cover of nearly 100 former legislators has either been reduced or withdrawn.
Saturday’s decision was taken following a review of VIP security, and it was found that over 100 politicians who enjoyed different layers of security “much more than desired”, a police officer said.
Senior SP leader Azam Khan, Akhilesh’s wife and Kannauj MP Dimple Yadav, SP’s Rajya Sabha MP Ram Gopal Yadav and SP veteran Shivpal Yadav were among those whose security has been reduced from Z category to Y.
These leaders will now have barely two to three security guards accompanying them during their movement.
Before he became the chief minister, Yogi Adityanath had Y security cover that was upgraded to Z-plus after increased threat perception following his elevation.
Z-plus security cover includes about 25 to 28 commandos accompanying the VVIP with sophisticated weapons at all times during movement. The security convoy of the Z-plus protectee also includes pilot and escort vehicles.