Police say no lapse in Arvind Kejriwal security, point to his Z+ status

NEW DELHI: Even as AAP has alleged lapses on the part of Delhi Police in providing security to chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, the force has claimed it has done its best.

To back up its claim, it has cited the fact that Kejriwal has been provided Z+ security with 51 policemen guarding him round the clock.

Kejriwal was provided Z category security based on intelligence bureau's assessment of the threat perception after he was elected CM.

This was done keeping in mind the fact that people had managed to come extremely close to him and had thrown ink, slapped and punched him.

There was also a threat from Indian Mujahideen, who apparently wanted to kidnap him and secure the release of Yasin Bhatkal. Kejriwal was reluctant in taking security but Delhi Police had to provide him cover without his permission, they said.

The CM is secured by commandos armed with MP5 submachine guns, Kalashnikovs, SLRs and Glock pistols. There are personnel for frisking, checking people and baggage at his residence. A PSO in civil dress stays close to him.

Police sources said unless directed by the CM or his staff to act otherwise, they do anti-sabotage checks and form a ring fence around Kejriwal whenever he is to address or attend any public gathering. Inthose cases, 10-12 more policemen are deployed for his security and local police also secure the venues.

Kejriwal's security has always been a headache for police. When he lived in Kaushambi as Delhi CM, Ghaziabad police had provided him Z+ security with 30 men despite his refusal. Delhi Police also deployed plainclothesmen who trailed him from a distance.