Downgrade Atishi’s security cover from ‘Z’ to ‘Y’ category: MHA to Delhi Police

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed Delhi Police to downgrade the security cover for Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi from the ‘Z’ to the ‘Y’ category, police sources confirmed on Tuesday.

The decision follows a recent threat assessment conducted by central security agencies, which concluded that there was no fresh or substantial threat justifying continued ‘Z’ category protection, an official stated.

According to sources, the directive was issued after Delhi Police’s security unit sought clarification from the MHA regarding the status of Atishi’s cover. The unit had also raised a query over the security detail of AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, who currently remains under ‘Z-plus’ category protection.

“Initially, the ministry advised maintaining existing security levels for both Kejriwal and Atishi. However, it later instructed Delhi Police to scale down Atishi’s cover to ‘Y’ category,” the official said.

Under the revised security arrangement, Atishi will now be protected by approximately 12 personnel, including two commandos from Delhi Police. The downgrade also entails the removal of certain privileges, such as the pilot vehicle that accompanied her motorcade during her brief tenure as Chief Minister.

In March, Delhi Police had similarly recommended withdrawing ‘Y’ category security from other AAP leaders, including former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, MLA Ajay Dutt, and ex-Speaker Ram Niwas Goel.

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Security arrangements for political figures are periodically reviewed by central agencies on MHA’s instructions, based on evolving threat perceptions.

Atishi was granted ‘Z’ category protection after taking over as Chief Minister. Following AAP’s defeat in the 5 February Delhi Assembly elections, she was appointed Leader of the Opposition after being chosen as the party’s legislative leader.

(With inputs from PTI)