Massive Security Review in Bengal: Security Downgraded for Several TMC Leaders, Including Abhishek Banerjee

Kolkata: Following the change of power in West Bengal, the new BJP government conducted a comprehensive review of VIP security on Sunday. Implementing structural changes based on this assessment, the administration has significantly downgraded the security cover of several high-profile leaders—including Trinamool Congress National General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee—as well as former police officials. Following this administrative review, the Home Department has immediately withdrawn the house guards deployed outside the residences of several VIPs, such as Kalyan Banerjee, Subrata Bakshi, Rajeev Kumar, and Arup Biswas.

According to officials, a fresh review of the “threat perception” (risk assessment) revealed that these individuals no longer require such extensive security cover. However, the administration has issued clear directives stating that there will be no reduction in the security of former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and that no laxity whatsoever will be tolerated regarding her protection.

According to administrative sources, the security review process was initiated immediately after the change of government in the state. Under this initiative, the security of TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee was the first to be scaled down. The government has completely withdrawn his ‘Z-Plus’ category security cover as well as the facility of a dedicated pilot car. Furthermore, the police personnel deployed outside his residence in Kalighat and his office premises on Camac Street have also been withdrawn.

MPs and MLAs to Receive Only Standard Security Cover
According to the new guidelines issued by the government, TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee and former Police Chief Rajeev Kumar will now be provided only with the standard security cover entitled to them in their capacity as Members of Parliament. Since former Minister Arup Biswas currently holds neither a ministerial portfolio nor a legislative position, his previous security cover has been withdrawn. Meanwhile, Beliaghata MLA Kunal Ghosh—who had been provided additional security on court orders following his bail in the Sarada scam case—has now been assigned only the standard security cover applicable to a Member of the Legislative Assembly.

Security Downgraded for Former DGP and Lawyers as Well
The list of individuals facing security downgrades also includes former DGP Manoj Malviya, former Acting DGP Piyush Pandey, and a prominent advocate who has represented the TMC in various legal battles. Piyush Pandey will now receive security cover strictly in accordance with his current official position. The government has issued clear directives stating that no individual should be provided with security exceeding their actual requirements; consequently, these additional security personnel have been withdrawn.

Mamata Banerjee’s Security to Remain Intact
Amidst the reduction in security cover for various leaders, the administration has also clarified that there will be no compromise regarding the security arrangements for former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The Kolkata Police have been issued explicit instructions to ensure the deployment of adequate security forces at Mamata Banerjee’s residence, as well as during her tours and public engagements. Officials have stated that any form of negligence concerning her security arrangements will not be tolerated under any circumstances.