Security Categories in India
The security categories are as follows:
SPG (Special Protection Group): This elite force is exclusively assigned to the Prime Minister of India and their immediate family.
Z+ Category: This is the highest level of security cover, comprising 36 personnel, including 10+ commandos from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) or other Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and police personnel.
Z Category: This level includes 22 personnel, comprising 4-6 commandos from CAPFs and police personnel.
Y+ Category: This category provides 11 personnel, including 2-4 commandos and police personnel.
Y Category: This level includes 8 personnel, comprising 1 or 2 commandos and police personnel.
X Category: This is the lowest level, providing 2 personnel, with no commandos but only armed police personnel.
What is Z Category Security?
The ‘Z’ category security is one of the highest levels of protection provided to individuals deemed to be at significant risk. This security level involves a detailed and robust set of protections, usually including 22 personnel. The team consists of personal security officers (PSOs), escorts, surveillance staff, and around eight static armed guards.
Who Receives ‘Z’ Category Security?
The ‘Z’ category security is extended to individuals based on threat assessments conducted by intelligence agencies. This includes:
Political Leaders: Union ministers, chief ministers, and other prominent political figures.
Government Officials: High-ranking officials within the government who may be targets due to their positions.
Public Figures: Individuals who have been identified as facing significant threats to their safety.
Notable Individuals with Z Category Security
In addition to Rekha Gupta, the following prominent personalities have been granted Z category security:
Former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi: During her tenure, Atishi was provided with similar protection due to her public profile and the potential risks she faced.
Union Ministers: Various Union ministers, including Chirag Paswan, have received Z category security after recent upgrades approved by the Home Ministry.
Dalai Lama: The Tibetan spiritual leader has had his security upgraded in response to a growing threat perception.
Baba Ramdev: The yoga guru has been provided with Z category security.
Aamir Khan: The Bollywood actor has also been granted Z category security.
