Kolkata: Trinamool Congress national general secretary and Diamond Harbour MP Abhishek Banerjee will now receive X category security cover following the attack on him during a visit to Sonarpur in South 24 Parganas district, a development that has intensified the political confrontation between the TMC and the BJP in West Bengal.
The decision comes a day after Banerjee alleged that he was assaulted while visiting families affected by post poll violence in Sonarpur. According to the TMC leader, a group of people hurled eggs, stones and other objects at him, while his shirt was reportedly torn during the scuffle. Banerjee claimed the attack was politically motivated and accused BJP backed elements of orchestrating the incident.
Following the episode, the West Bengal government decided to provide X category security to the TMC leader. Under the revised arrangement, Banerjee will be accompanied by additional security personnel. Reports indicate that three security guards will remain deployed with him at all times. Earlier, he was being protected by two security personnel after his previous higher level security cover was withdrawn following the change in government in the state.
According to security protocols, X category security is considered the basic level of VIP protection provided after a threat assessment. It generally includes four to five personnel, including armed personal security officers. Unlike higher categories such as Y, Z or Z Plus, X category security does not typically include commandos, escort vehicles or pilot cars. The level of protection is determined based on recommendations from agencies such as the Intelligence Bureau, the Home Ministry and state authorities after evaluating security risks.
The attack has triggered sharp political reactions across the state. TMC chief and former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged that the assault could have resulted in serious consequences and questioned the adequacy of security arrangements. Senior party leaders also claimed that the reduction in Banerjee’s earlier security cover had made him vulnerable.
Banerjee, meanwhile, has said that the entire incident was captured on camera and announced plans to move court over the matter. He also indicated that the issue would be brought to the attention of constitutional authorities, including the Governor.
The BJP has denied involvement in the incident and rejected allegations made by the TMC. Party leaders have maintained that the confrontation reflected public anger rather than any organised political attack.
The latest development has once again brought the spotlight on political violence and security concerns in West Bengal, where tensions between the ruling BJP government and the opposition TMC continue to remain high after the Assembly elections.