 "Shinde steps up Modi's security, denies SPG cover")
BJP's prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi will be given additional NSG commandos in view of security risks to him, but the present rule does not permit giving him SPG security, Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde said here Monday.
Talking to media persons here, Shinde said advanced security liaison (ASL) has been ordered for Modi's meetings.
An ASL is carried out by security agencies ahead of visit of dignitaries or politicians.
He said that National Security Guard commandos and additional component of Gujarat Police were providing security to the Gujarat chief minister in view of security risk to him.
"SPG (special protection group) security is given under law. We cannot give him SPG cover as per law," Shinde said.
He said that Modi would be given additional NSG personnel if needed. Black Cat commandos of the NSG provide Modi proximate security.
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The BJP earlier said that providing adequate security to Modi was the central government's responsibility.
The party blamed the Bihar and the central governments for security lapse during Modi's rally in Patna in October and demanded more security for him.
SPG protection is given to the prime minister and some other dignitaries identified in the parliamentary legislation that created the SPG.