Following receipt of fresh threat inputs from intelligence agencies, “Advance Security Liaison” (ASL) drill has been added to RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat's security, strengthening his existing ‘Z+’ category cover. Home Minister Amit Shah is the only other ASL protectee. What ASL protection entails The ASL drill is focused on preparation and management of security measures to ensure the safety of the protectee. A special team visits the location to assess security arrangements ahead of the arrival of the protectee. The team identifies shortcomings, makes a threat analysis, and assesses the planning and coordination with local police. The ASL protocol requires the district administration, police, health department, and other local agencies to collaborate to ensure the protectee's security. The protocol mandates the protectee's travel only by specially designed aircraft, and thorough anti-sabotage inspections and multi-layered security rings. Reason for ASL on top of Z+ Ten individuals are currently covered by Z+ security — the highest level of security cover — provided by personnel of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). The additional ASL layer is provided only to some Z+ protectees, based on the analysis of the threat perception for them. The CISF also provides protection to the RSS headquarters in Nagpur, and to Keshav Kunj, the RSS office in Delhi. The CISF provides varying levels of security to some 200 individuals in all. Mohan Bhagwat's security Security agencies have recently received inputs that certain banned outfits may target the RSS chief. The ASL drill was so far initiated only during his visits to certain sensitive and vulnerable locations. However, after central agencies observed some shortcomings, the Ministry of Home Affairs ordered a security review. Following completion of the review and assessment of the threat, fresh directions were issued on August 16. All states and Union Territories have been informed of the security upgrade for Bhagwat.
