Pinarayi Vijayan’s security cover downgraded to Y-category

Thiruvananthapuram: After assuming office as opposition leader, the Z-plus security earlier extended to former chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has been withdrawn. He is now being provided Y-category security.One of the security personnel, Sandeep S, who had served as Vijayan’s gunman and is now an accused in the case related to alleged assault on Youth Congress and KSU activists during Nava Kerala Yatra has been dropped from Vijayan’s security detail.However, another accused in the same case, security officer Anil Kumar, continues to be part of Vijayan’s security team.Under the revised arrangement, two personal security officers (PSOs) have been assigned in place of gunmen. The escort vehicle that was earlier part of Vijayan’s convoy has also been withdrawn, though the pilot vehicle will continue. Police personnel will continue to be deployed at Vijayan’s residence for security purposes.A decision on whether additional protection is required at the residence will be taken by the internal security assessment committee after a review.