The West Bengal government has reduced the security cover of several leaders of the ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) following a review of VIP security arrangements across the state. The decision has generated significant political discussion, with both ruling party leaders and opposition groups reacting strongly to the development.
According to reports, the state’s Directorate of Security recently carried out an assessment of the threat perception faced by ministers, MPs, MLAs, and other political figures. Based on this review, the security cover of a number of TMC leaders was either downgraded or withdrawn. Among the prominent leaders affected is Abhishek Banerjee, the national general secretary of the TMC and Member of Parliament from Diamond Harbour. Reports suggest that his Z-category security cover provided by the state has been removed, although he will continue to receive central security protection due to his status as an MP.
Government officials stated that the move was part of a routine administrative exercise intended to rationalize the deployment of police personnel and ensure that security resources are allocated efficiently. They emphasized that such reviews are periodically conducted and are based on intelligence inputs rather than political considerations.
However, the opposition has criticized the move, claiming it reflects internal political tensions within the ruling party. Some opposition leaders alleged that the reduction in security could expose leaders to risks in politically sensitive areas. Meanwhile, several TMC leaders defended the government’s decision and maintained that there was no major threat requiring extensive security deployment.
The development comes at a time when political activity in West Bengal has intensified ahead of future electoral campaigns. Security arrangements for political leaders have often remained a sensitive issue in the state due to frequent political clashes and tensions between rival parties.
Political analysts believe the decision may also reflect an attempt by the state government to reduce the excessive use of police personnel for VIP duties and redirect them toward general law-and-order responsibilities. The issue has now become a fresh topic of debate in West Bengal politics, with parties using it to target one another over governance and security priorities.
