VIP security in India is given in X, Y, Z, Z+ and SPG categories depending on the threat. The highest SPG security is for the Prime Minister. Other categories have security personnel deployed from 2 (X) to 36 (Z+) depending on the threat.
New Delhi: In India, whenever there is talk of security of any big leader or celebrity, there is mention of X, Y, Z, Z+ or SPG category. These security zones are decided based on the threat a person faces. So let us understand in simple language what these different security covers mean and who gets them.
While providing police protection to VIPs in India, security is given in five categories depending on the threat to their life. This security is given by the Union Home Ministry. Who will get which security is decided on the basis of inputs received from agencies like Intelligence Bureau (IB). It is also reviewed from time to time, after which the security can be increased or decreased.
The responsibility of this security rests with the state police as well as central forces like NSG (National Security Guard), ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police) and CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force). NSG commandos are also deployed for the protection of most important people (VVIP).
Different categories of VIP security in the country
SPG (Special Protection Group)
This is the country’s top level and tightest security cordon. This security is available only to the Prime Minister of the country and his family members living with him at his official residence. Apart from this, former Prime Ministers and their families are also given SPG cover for a fixed period. SPG was formed after the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1988. Its annual budget is more than Rs 300 crore and it has four-layer security.
Z+ Security
After SPG, this is the second biggest security category in the country. It has a three-layer security cordon and a total of 36 security personnel. There are more than 10 NSG ‘Black Cat’ commandos in the innermost circle. ITBP and CRPF personnel are responsible for the security of the second and third circle. This security is usually given to Union Ministers or those big personalities who are at high risk of terrorist attack.
Z Security
This is the third largest VIP security in the country. A total of 22 soldiers are deployed for Z category security. In this, ITBP and CRPF soldiers and officers remain under security. In this security, an escort and a pilot vehicle are also provided.
Y and Y+ Security
This is the fourth largest security category in the country. In India, most VIP people are given ‘Y’ category security. There are a total of 11 soldiers in it, including one or two commandos, two Personal Security Officers (PSO) and the rest are paramilitary personnel. At the same time, in Y+ Security, along with an escort vehicle, a guard commander and four guards are deployed at the VIP’s house.
X Security
This is the lowest level of VIP security. There are only two soldiers in X category security. One of these is Personal Security Officer (PSO). Apart from these people, Supreme Court judges, high-profile celebrities, big businessmen and renowned sportspersons are also given VIP security based on threat assessment.