Home Minister and Defence Minister to get Z+ security

As per sources, the Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will be provided with Z+ security. Sources have also revealed changes that could be expected in SPG cover procedures by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The Z + category security currently includes 55 personnel including 10 plus NSG commandos and Police personnel. 

Gandhi family to lose SPG security

In another significant development, sources have confirmed that the Gandhi family may lose their SPG security cover. The Gandhi family that includes Congress interim President Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is likely to be given Z+ security following this. This development comes a month after the union government issued new guidelines to the SPG.

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Manmohan Singh loses SPG cover

In August, the government had withdrawn the SPG protection given to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh following a review meeting. However, he continued to get Z plus security provided by Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), preferably the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). After Rajiv Gandhi's assassination in 1991, the SPG Act was amended to offer SPG protection to all former prime ministers and their families for at least 10 years.

Sources also said Z + security would be provided to veteran BJP leaders LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi. However, no official announcement has been made yet. 

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The Z+ security cover

The security system in India is divided into four categories: Z + (highest level), Z, Y, and X.  Z+ is the highest category security in India. It offers a security cover of 55 personnel, including 10+ NSG Commandos + Police Personnel. Each commando is an expert in martial arts and unarmed combat. Z+ security is provided by the NSG commandos equipped with sophisticated MP5 guns, and modern communication gadgets. Only 12-17 VIPs in the country are provided with Z+ security.

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