Security Measures for Suvendu Adhikari to be Strengthened Amid Threats from Bangladeshi Groups

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Security Measures for Suvendu Adhikari to be Strengthened Amid Threats from Bangladeshi Groups

Kolkata, Dec 29 (NationPress) The security arrangements for the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, are set to be completely revamped in response to warnings from central intelligence agencies about a potential terrorist assault against him by members of Bangladesh-based extremist organizations that have already crossed into Indian territory through the vulnerable borders.

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has commenced efforts to coordinate with the West Bengal government regarding additional security protocols that can be implemented for the Leader of the Opposition, as confirmed by a senior official from the state secretariat, Nabanna.

This official also noted that the Union Home Ministry has shown a proactive approach in ensuring comprehensive safety for Adhikari.

Furthermore, the Ministry has requested the state government to provide details about the venues of public gatherings that Adhikari will attend, allowing for the adoption of appropriate security measures based on the sensitivity of each location.

There is also a proposal for Adhikari to receive bullet-proof vehicles in case any public meeting occurs in particularly sensitive areas, especially those near international borders.

Additionally, the state official indicated that there would be limitations on individuals wanting to take selfies with the Leader of the Opposition during these public events.

Recent intelligence inputs from central agencies have explicitly stated that Adhikari has become a target for two radical groups based in Bangladesh, namely Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) and Hizb-ut-Tahrir (HUT).

According to the intelligence reports, there is a heightened risk of an attack during any of the numerous public events he attends daily, where he has consistently voiced his concerns regarding the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh, particularly regarding violence against minorities and Hindu religious sites.

The threat perception has been acknowledged for some time, prompting the Union government to decide to enhance security for Adhikari last month.

Up until November, Adhikari was provided with ‘Z’ category security only within West Bengal. However, due to the elevated threat level highlighted in the central intelligence report, this same level of security will now accompany him wherever he travels across India.

Previously, Adhikari was granted ‘Y’ category security in states outside of West Bengal.

Nation Press