The Hindu : National : New post to oversee VIP security in Kolkata

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Thursday, Dec 09, 2004

National

National

New post to oversee VIP security in Kolkata

By Our Special Correspondent

KOLKATA, DEC. 8. A new post has been created in the city police force to oversee the security cover for the West Bengal Chief Minister, his Cabinet colleagues and other VVIPs either residing in or passing through Kolkata.

The Commissioner of Police, Prasun Mukherjee, told The Hindu here today that the post of Deputy Commissioner (Security) was created as there was a growing threat to VVIPs from militants and terrorists in different parts of the country. Till now, the security aspect was looked after by the Special Branch of the city police.

The VVIPs came under various security categories depending upon periodical reviews of "the threat perception," Mr. Mukherjee said.

The move is being described as a "general precaution."

The militants' activities are confined to some parts of north Bengal where the Kamtapur Liberation Organisation was active in recent years and the south-western districts where naxalites belonging to the Communist Party of India (Maoists) have their bases.

However, there is greater concern among the forces entrusted with maintaining law and order in Kolkata.

Posters which appeared recently in certain parts of the city signed by naxalites calling for "spreading and intensifying the revolutionary war" has added to the concern.

Printer friendly page
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

National