Will reorganise security apparatus as per CM's needs: Delhi’s top cop BS Bassi

New Delhi: Delhi Police on Monday said it will reorganise the security apparatus as per the needs of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who has been apprehensive about taking protection saying it will hamper his interaction with the public.

The chief minister of the National Capital Territory is entitled to Z-plus security, but Kejriwal had during his earlier stint refused any security.

AAP leader Ashutosh had said last week that Kejriwal will not take Z-plus security as it hinders his public interaction. "Security of the Cabinet as well as the chief minister is our responsibility. As per the position held by these dignitaries, adequate security arrangements are required to be made. (But) whenever we make security arrangements, we have to keep in mind the comfort and convenience of the secured person," said Delhi Police Commissioner BS Bassi.

"If the protected person is not comfortable with certain systems, we try to reorganise them so that it does not hinder his or her day-to-day activities," he added when asked about Kejriwal's reluctance to accept security.

Asked as to how that would be done, Bassi pointed out that security issues are a matter of privilege and cannot be made public.

"In case anything is considered an obstruction, we do the same thing in a different fashion so that it does not cause any hindrance to the protected person," he said.

Bassi earlier today met Kejriwal with the duo discussing the overall security of Delhi and that of the vulnerable sections of society like women and children.

"The chief minister assured me that the government will extend full cooperation to state police in ensuring the security of the citizens of Delhi. We also talked about women's security," he said.

The police chief also invited Kejriwal for Delhi Police's 68th Raising Day parade and the At Home function. Under Z-plus security cover, armed guards are posted at the protectee's residence and visitors have to pass through Door-Framed Metal Detector. Also, a pilot car followed by two escort cars carrying security personnel accompanies the protectee wherever he or she goes.

Kejriwal took oath along with six Cabinet ministers on February 14 at the Ramlila Grounds here after AAP swept the Delhi Assembly elections, winning 67 seats.