Central security has been heightened for Adhir Chowdhury, the Congress candidate from Baharampur, ahead of the Assembly elections. Additional security personnel, including women, will be deployed, with five more personnel recently added to his security team. This move follows protests by Trinamool Congress workers during his campaign in Murshidabad district.
Chowdhury, who previously had ‘Y Plus’ central security as an MP, now sees an increase in personnel from five to ten. Despite losing the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, his security detail was not withdrawn by the Centre. Alongside central security, Adhir also has two state police constables for protection.
Questions have arisen regarding the provision of central security to Chowdhury despite not currently holding a parliamentary position. Trinamool Congress General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee suggested a potential understanding between Chowdhury and the Centre on security matters during a recent meeting in Murshidabad. In response to criticism, his security has been bolstered.
Campaigning for the Assembly elections has been challenging for Chowdhury, with reports of ‘go back’ slogans and protests, particularly from women, at various locations. This situation has led to the recent increase in his security detail, as confirmed by a source close to him.
Chowdhury faced ‘go back’ chants from Trinamool Congress workers during his foot campaign in Berhampore, where police and central forces intervened to maintain order. A similar incident occurred the day before, resulting in disciplinary actions by the West Bengal Police against certain Trinamool Congress members for obstructing Chowdhury’s campaign.
