Number of VIPs with special security rises

While the number of people who enjoyed special security was 350 under the previous Congress-led government, the current count as per the Union Home Ministry’s list is 475 people. 

The figures as revealed by the ministry source are an all-time high, though the Narendra Modi government brags about reining in VIP culture in the country. However, top-level officers at North Block said the government may review the list and reduce the number of VIP protectees soon. 

Currently, the highest Z-plus security is given to 50 people across the country. They are protected by about 35 to 40 security personnel always. This number under the previous UPA government was almost half – 26. Special security is provided to individuals under several categories that range from X to Z plus based on the threat perception that the government determines from time to time. Both the central and state governments provide security.  

Under each category the number of security personnel that protect the guarded person varies – people with Z category security get 30 guards, while people with Y Plus security get 11 as per current norms.  

Currently, Uttar Pradesh has the most VIPs who are provided special protection. They include BJP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, former Chief Ministers Mulayam Singh Yadav and his son Akhilesh Yadav of the Samajwadi Party and BSP leader Mayawati. 

Only industrialist Mukesh Ambani and his wife Neeta Ambani pay for the Z and Y category security, respectively, that they have been provided by the government.