Akhilesh Yadav Loses NSG Cover: SP Alleges BJP Political Vendetta, Seeks Explanation

NEW DELHI — In a move that has ignited a fresh political storm, the Union Home Ministry has reportedly withdrawn the elite ‘Black Cat’ NSG (National Security Guard) security cover of Samajwadi Party (SP) chief and former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Akhilesh Yadav. The decision, part of a periodic review of VIP security, has drawn sharp criticism from the Samajwadi Party, which has accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of political vendetta.

Security Review or Political Motive? According to sources within the Home Ministry, the withdrawal of NSG protection for several prominent political figures is a routine exercise based on a comprehensive threat assessment by central intelligence agencies. The NSG, India’s premier counter-terrorism force, is generally deployed for high-risk individuals, and its deployment is periodically reassessed.

However, the timing of the decision, particularly given Yadav’s stature as a key opposition leader in Uttar Pradesh and his vocal criticism of the BJP government, has raised eyebrows.

Samajwadi Party’s Strong Reaction The Samajwadi Party has not held back in its condemnation of the move. Party spokespersons immediately termed the withdrawal as a “politically motivated” decision aimed at harassing and intimidating opposition leaders.

“This is a clear example of how the BJP government misuses central agencies for political ends,” stated a senior SP leader. “Akhilesh Yadav faces significant threats as a prominent political figure. Removing his NSG cover without proper justification is highly irresponsible and puts his life at risk. We demand a transparent explanation from the Home Ministry on what specific threat assessment led to this decision.”

Broader Implications for VIP Security This development is not an isolated incident. In recent years, several political leaders across the spectrum have seen changes in their security details following similar reviews by the Home Ministry. Critics argue that such decisions, especially when impacting opposition figures, often become entangled in political narratives, leading to accusations of selective application of rules.

As the political rhetoric heats up, the focus will now shift to whether the Home Ministry will provide a detailed rationale for its decision, and how this move will impact the political landscape in Uttar Pradesh, especially with an eye on upcoming elections. The Samajwadi Party has indicated that it will explore all available options, including legal recourse, if satisfactory answers are not provided.