Bhubaneswar, Oct 31: The Odisha government has downgraded the security of former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, reducing his coverage from Z category to Y.
On recommendation from the high-level committee that periodically reviews the security of key public figures, Patnaik's security has been adjusted to reflect his current position as Leader of Opposition.
Under the new arrangement, two Havildars will be responsible for Patnaik's security cover.
During his 24-year tenure as Chief Minister, there was comprehensive security arrangments which included extensive police force deployment and piloting teams.
After the recent elections-2024, Patnaik's security team was reduced from 268 personnel to 23, with only essential guards stationed at Naveen Niwas, his residence in Bhubaneswar.
This move follows a security enhancement under the previous BJD administration in September 2023, which had increased his protection with an anti-sabotage squad and created 91 additional posts dedicated to his security.
