Odisha Govt Downgrades Security of Former CM Naveen Patnaik to Y Category

BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha government has reduced the security cover of five-time former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who also serves as the Leader of the Opposition, from Z to Y category. This decision follows the recommendation of a high-level committee responsible for assessing the security requirements of prominent individuals, an official confirmed on Thursday.

Following the downgrade, most of the security personnel previously assigned to Patnaik have been withdrawn. The BJD chief will now have only two constables of Havildar rank assigned for his protection, the official stated. The change comes as a significant adjustment to Patnaik’s security arrangement, which previously included a higher level of protection.

The re-evaluation and subsequent recommendation to downgrade Patnaik’s security were based on a reassessment of potential threats and security needs. However, the decision has sparked discussions in political circles, given Patnaik’s longstanding role in Odisha’s political landscape.