The ECI’s order makes it clear that the withdrawal of security cover will apply across political affiliations. Leaders who are out on bail or parole, those with pending criminal cases, or individuals with a history of criminal offences have been deemed ineligible for state protection.
“The arrival of the central forces personnel was completed on late Friday night and in that 11th hour it was hardly possible to ensure proper deployment,” said a state Election Commission official.
As per the order issued by the additional director general of police (security), a day after the CM designate Mann met Punjab Police Director General of Police (DGP) VK Bhawra, security of 122 VVIPs, including former ministers, will be withdrawn. The withdrawn policemen will report to their parent units.
In a statement, Tarigami said that the decision of the government to downgrade and withdraw the security of political leaders, activists of different parties is arbitrary and has no justification. The decision could endanger the lives of these leaders and activists.
According to police alignment, senior officers comprising 10 officers in the rank of Jt Commissioners, 26 deputy commissioners and 71 assistant commissioners would be on duty to man security. A total of 50 points in the city has been earmarked to conduct naka checkings.
The PDP had applied for permission to hold a prayer meeting at the Bijbehara grave of the former chief minister but it was denied.
Earlier this week, the Lok Sabha passed the Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill, 2019, as per which the SPG will now protect the prime minister and members of his immediate family residing with him at his official residence.
Earlier, the SPG cover of former prime minister of HD Deve Gowda and Inder Kumar Gujral was also downgraded.
Malik's detention comes ahead of the hearing on Article 35A in the Supreme Court which is likely to take place on Monday.
In a major step taken in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack, the Centre on Sunday withdrew the security cover of five top separatists including Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.
