The Bihar government late on Thursday downgraded the Z-plus security covers, the highest level of personal protection, of former chief ministers Rabri Devi and Lalu Prasad Yadav, and withdrew the Y-category cover of their son and ex-minister, Tej Pratap Yadav, following a security review.
Officials said the move is in line with 2010 guidelines, and the security is expected to be scaled down in phases.The Z-plus cover includes over 40 personnel, static guards, commandos, watchers, and security for the convoy.
The Y security cover for the other member of the family, Tejashwi Yadav, the leader of the Opposition in the Bihar assembly, will remain as usual.
Rabri Devi’s new cover will include 16 police personnel, three plain-clothes women security officers, three uniformed security guards, a bullet-proof car, and a pilot vehicle. An escort party and pilot vehicle will be provided when she travels. A similar arrangement will be in place for Lalu Prasad Yadav
Tej Pratap Yadav will now get only one bodyguard. Officials said he would be provided with a security cover meant for former leaders and ministers.