Sachin Tendulkar's security downgraded

Mumbai: Following a security assessment review, the Maharashtra government has decided to downgrade the security cover of former Rajya Sabha MP and batting legend Sachin Tendulkar, while that of Shiv Sena MLA Aaditya Thackeray has been upgraded from Y+ to Z category.

The changes to the present security cover were made after a state government committee conducted a review and submitted its report suggesting the measures. The committee reviewed at least 90 prominent personalities who enjoy various levels of security cover.

Earlier, Mr Tendulkar, who is also a Bharat Ratna awardee, was given X category security cover that included policeman shadowing him round the clock. Under the new measure, Mr Tendulkar will now be given a police escort whenever he steps out of his home.

Social activist Anna Hazare’s security has been enhanced to Y+ from Z category. Former Uttar Pradesh governor Ram Naik’s Z+ security has been downgraded to X, an official said.

Moreover, security cover of two former BJP ministers, Eknath Khadse and Ram Shinde, has also been downgraded.

The junior Thackeray, who is also a member of legislative assembly from Worli, will now have more policemen guarding him. Other people who were part of the assessment included NCP president Sharad Pawar, who will continue to enjoy Z+ security. His nephew Ajit Pawar has also been recommended to retain Z category security cover.

Social activist Anna Hazare’s security has been enhanced to Y+ from Z category. Former Uttar Pradesh governor Ram Naiks Z+ security has been downgraded to X. Security cover of two former BJP ministers, Eknath Khadse and Ram Shinde, has also been downgraded, he said.

It is stated that changes in the security covers being offered to other prominent politicians are also likely to be reviewed in the coming days. So also with the oath-taking ceremony of the new state government slated to take place soon, reworking in the categories are likely in the security of those already reviewed.