Bengal downgrades Abhishek Banerjee's security cover, Mamata's unchanged

In a significant realignment of high-profile security cover in West Bengal, the state home ministry and security agencies have reassessed the protection levels for several top political figures, including Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Abhishek Banerjee, following a routine threat perception assessment and is in the process of revising the same.

The Z+ category security previously accorded to the parliamentarian is being scaled down. Moving forward, the TMC national general secretary, who is also the nephew of former chief minister Mamata Banerjee, will receive security coverage in accordance with the standard protocols laid down by the Centre for VIPs of his standing.

While the specific details of the new tier were not disclosed for tactical reasons, sources noted that the adjustment follows a comprehensive review of current risk factors.

Despite the changes to Abhishek's security detail, Mamata will continue to be protected under the Z+ category due to her status as the ex-CM of the state.

The adjustments are as per the standard administrative protocol. The reassessment of security is a continuous and evolving process.

Security tiers are frequently calibrated based on intelligence inputs, environmental factors, and updated threat profiles to ensure resources are deployed where they are most critically required.

The threat perception assessment resulting in the latest shake-up of security cover for high-profile political figures in West Bengal came just days after the BJP came to power for the first time in the state following a resounding mandate in the Assembly elections held last month.

The saffron party secured 207 seats in the 294-member assembly, ending the TMC's 15-year rule.