Kerala CM's security tightened following threat

Thiruvananthapuram, May 14 (UNI) Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan's security was tightened today following anonymous calls, originating from a Gulf country, that he will be ''eliminated in 24 hours.'' The Kozhikode City Police received the first call at 0410 hrs threatening to kill the Chief Minister within 24 hours and later a similar call was received at the Thiruvananthapuram City Police Commissioner's Office here.

Director General of Police Raman Sreevastava told newspersons the security of the Chief Minister was tightened following the incident.

''The call received at Kozhikode originated from Saudi Arabia.

We are seeking the support of the IB and RAW for further investigation into the matter,'' he added.

Home Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said that 'Z' category security would be provided to the Chief Minister.

Kozhikode Police Commissioner Balramkumar Upadhaya said the motive behind the call could be aimed at creating panic. The Police Headquarters here had been alerted for necessary action.

Though security has been tightened in and around the Chief Minister's office here following the threat, there was no change in the itinerary of Mr Achuthanandan.

A minor spark in an electric system caused some anxious moments while Mr Achuthanandan was addressing the gathering after inaugurating the 25,000 US Dollar Trivandrum ITF Women's Ciruit at the Trivandrum Tennis Club here.

Later, the Chief Minister said he was not scared of any threat on his life. ''My security is in the hands of people,'' he asserted.

UNI