The Indian government has granted Z-category armed security to Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama, citing potential security threats, official sources confirmed on Thursday. This enhanced protection aims to ensure his safety across the country.
CRPF takes over Dalai Lama’s security
The Union Home Ministry has assigned the VIP security wing of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to take charge of the 89-year-old leader’s security. With this upgrade, the Dalai Lama will now be protected by CRPF commandos under a uniform security cover wherever he travels in India.
Previously, his security was managed by the Himachal Pradesh Police, which provided a smaller protection unit. Additionally, when he traveled to Delhi or other locations, local police forces took charge of his safety.
Security review led to upgrade
According to a senior official, the decision to enhance his security followed a review by central intelligence agencies. Based on their assessment, the government deemed it necessary to provide him with a higher level of protection.
Under the new arrangement, a team of approximately 30 CRPF commandos will be assigned to guard the Dalai Lama, working in rotational shifts to ensure round-the-clock security.
BJP leader Sambit Patra also gets Z-security in Manipur
In a similar move, the Union Home Ministry has also provided Z-category security to BJP leader Sambit Patra in Manipur.
The 50-year-old Member of Parliament from Puri, who is in charge of BJP’s affairs in the northeastern state, has been granted this security cover due to the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur, which has persisted for nearly two years.
Both security upgrades reflect the government’s focus on ensuring the safety of high-profile individuals facing potential threats.