TDP protests security reduction to Naidu

Hyderabad, Sep 28 (UNI) Opposition TDP leaders, including several legislators staged a dharna before the DGP's office here protesting against reduction in the security cover to N Chandrababu Naidu.

The protesters, arrested on the charge of obstructing traffic were taken to Nampalli police station. They were later released.

TDLP Deputy Leader E Dayakara Rao alleged that the government had deliberately reduced the security to Mr Naidu.

Mr Rao warned that the TDP would launch a state-wide agitation if the previous security cover was not restored.

Home Minister K Jana Reddy, however, said the state government was not responsible for the reduction or increase of the security to VIPs. The Central Intelligence Department had evaluated the security needs of different leaders through Security Audit and advised the state governments, he added.

Over 150 security personnel were provided for Mr Naidu, he added.

The Minister offered to provide more security personnel to former Chief Minister, who is placed in the Z catagory following threat from naxalites, even at the cost of reducing his own security.

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