New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP government has scaled down the armed security cover of central paramilitary commandos given to MP and former Union minister of state Babul Supriyo, who joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Saturday, it is learnt.
Quoting official sources, a PTI report said a recommendation in this regard was made by the central security and intelligence agencies.
Indicating a further review of Supriyo’s security cover cannot be ruled out, the sources added that the job of his security can be entrusted entirely to the West Bengal Police as he has now joined the TMC.
The security cover to Supriyo, who is the Member of Parliament from Asansol, has been reduced from the second-highest level of Z category to Y category. The move comes after the Union Ministry of Home Affairs issued an order in this regard earlier on Friday.
The security cover given to the VVIPs and high-risk personalities ranges from the highest Z+ followed by Z, Y+, Y and X categories.
Supriyo, who was until now given protection by six to seven armed commandos of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), will now be guarded by two armed personnel during travel.
After joining the TMC, the 50-year-old singer-turned politician expressed his delight and said that he would work for West Bengal’s development.
Supriyo, who had announced his “retirement from politics” after the Union Cabinet reshuffle earlier this year, said he was making a comeback for a great opportunity to serve West Bengal.
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“I am very proud that I am changing my decision. I am coming back for a great opportunity to serve Bengal. I am very excited. I will meet Didi (CM Mamata Banerjee) on Monday. I am overwhelmed by the warm welcome,” he said after joining the TMC, ANI reported.