Politicians won’t decide security cover for VIPs: Fadnavis

Fadnavis, in a note to the home department, said the category of security cover should be based on threat perception, according to the police’s assessment.

In a move that can bring down unnecessary security given to VIPs in Maharashtra and reduce political interference in policing, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis has decided that powers to grant security will stay in the hands of officials.

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Fadnavis, who is also heads the home ministry, on Monday decided that the CM or home minister cannot decide who deserves security.

The decision will now be taken by a panel led by the chief secretary, along with director general of police and commissioner intelligence.

Fadnavis, in a note to the home department, said the category of security cover should be based on threat perception, according to the police’s assessment.

Earlier, while officials reviewed security, the final decision was made by the home minister or the CM.

Currently, 32 police inspectors, 302 assistant police inspectors, 405 police constables and 108 drivers are engaged in providing security to VIPs.

Till now, many tend to lobby with politicians for security cover, despite there being no threat to them.

Fadnavis’ decision is in kee ping with t he move to decentralise power and keep political interference to minimal.