After attack, Delhi CM’s security likely to be enhanced

Official sources said the Delhi Police is looking into possible security lapses behind Wednesday’s incident and is likely to make changes to the protocol of meetings between complainants and Gupta.

Currently, the CM has a ‘Z-plus’ security cover. The Delhi Police’s security unit is responsible for providing security to the Delhi CM and Cabinet ministers.

According to the ‘Yellow Book’ of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) — which outlines the guidelines for security arrangements for VIPs and VVIPs — a ‘Z’ category protectee is assigned approximately 22 to 25 personnel — including Personal Security Officers (PSOs), escorts, watchers, and eight static armed guards.

For a ‘Z-plus’ category protectee, the number of personnel is doubled — around 60 personnel working in shifts — with enhanced security arrangements covering the protectee’s residence and cavalcade.

After being sworn in as Chief Minister, Gupta has been meeting the public and hearing their grievances three times a week, including every Wednesday, at her residence. She recently shifted to her official bungalow at Plot No. 8, Raj Niwas Marg, which includes a Camp Office where she meets complainants in the mornings.

Outlining the possible changes to these public meetings, sources said: “Security officials may introduce measures to ensure complainants maintain a certain distance from the Chief Minister while still being able to voice their concerns.”

All complainants will be thoroughly checked by security personnel at the entrance before being allowed into the Camp Office, they added.

“The complainants may also be required to share their grievances with security personnel or the CM’s staff first before meeting the Chief Minister,” sources further said.

Among former chief ministers, Arvind Kejriwal, the AAP chief, had ‘Z-plus’ security cover after he faced attacks during his tenure.

During her 15-year tenure, former Congress CM Sheila Dikshit had ‘Z’ category security.