Kejriwal's Z-Plus Security reduced

Delhi police said four security guards with Arvind Kejriwal's security details were replaced by four others for administrative reasons.

Delhi's Prime Minister Arvind Kejriwal's cover is still working well with 63 people assigned to guard him, Delhi police said on Thursday, disputing reports that the protection of the Aam Aadmi Party leader had been reduced.

"Delhi's Prime Minister Arvind Kejriwal has Z-Plus security from Delhi Police which includes pilot, escort, security team, home security, etc CRPF," said police spokesperson Chinmay Biswal. "The insurance coverage they have been given has not changed and there is no reduction in the number of personnel they have been given. Four police officers have been replaced by four other officers for administrative reasons. The safety rules in the 'yellow book' police say this is a normal procedure.

The statement came after media reports quoted unnamed sources in the AAP government as saying that before Mr. Kejriwal's campaign day in Surat of Gujarat, his security cover had been reduced. Delhi police report to the BJP-led central government and not to Mr. Kejriwal's administration - a difference that has led to repeated protests over a six-year period known for his refusal to protect security such as abandoning VIP culture.

"Progress, as directed by the BJP leadership, came two days after the Aam Aadmi Party's successful performance in the Gujarat public body election," a source said.

The number of Delhi police commandos in Mr. Kejriwal's security has now been reduced from six to two, sources said. Aam Aadmi Party spokesman Saurabh Bhardwaj sought "reasons" for the "petty decision”. "The MHA has withdrawn four security commanders from Arvind Kejriwal. It is unfortunate that this Centre could compromise on the safety of someone like this," he said.

He said Kejriwal had been attacked several times in the past and that he had defense certificates with only six commanders of unsightly police officers compared to other prime ministers or central government ministers.