New Delhi: The central government has accorded the highest category of Z-plus security cover to Sharad Pawar, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has designated a team of 55 armed CRPF personnel to provide round-the-clock protection for the 83-year-old veteran politician.Why Sharad Pawar receives Z-plus securityThe decision to provide Z-plus security to Sharad Pawar was based on a recent threat assessment conducted by central security agencies. The assessment revealed potential risks to Pawars safety, prompting the recommendation for a robust security detail. In response, the Centre swiftly implemented the Z-plus cover, deploying the CRPFs VIP security wing to safeguard the former Chief Minister of Maharashtra.The Central government has accorded Z+ category Central Reserve Police Force armed VIP security cover to NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar.(file pic) pic.twitter.com/YVCMLY3sAT— ANI (@ANI) August 21, 2024A CRPF team has already been dispatched to Maharashtra to ensure Pawars security is effectively managed. The Z-plus security cover is the highest level of protection in India, followed by Z, Y+, Y, and X categories, with each level providing varying degrees of security based on the perceived threat.Who is Sharad PawarSharad Pawar, a towering figure in Indian politics, founded the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) after breaking away from the Indian National Congress in 1999. His political career began in 1967 when he was first elected to Maharashtras Legislative Assembly. Over the decades, Pawar has held numerous key positions, including three terms as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra (1978-80, 1983-91, and 1993-95). He has also been elected to the Lok Sabha six times, where he served in critical ministries, including defense under Prime Minister PV Narasimha Raos government from 1991 to 1993.Pawars decision to leave the Congress was driven by his opposition to Sonia Gandhis candidacy for Prime Minister, which led to his expulsion from the party. This move marked the beginning of the NCP, which has since played a significant role in Maharashtra and national politics.Bihar leaders receive security upgradesIn related developments, Bihars Minister and JDU leader Leshi Singh has been granted Z-category security. Additionally, BJP MP Vivek Thakur from Nawada and JDU MP Devesh Chandra Thakur from Sitamarhi have been provided with Y-category security, as per decisions made during a security coordination meeting of the Bihar government.
