West Bengal Government Downgrades Sourav Ganguly’s Security Cover After Review

Kolkata, June 2026 : The West Bengal government has revised the security arrangements provided to former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly, downgrading his protection from the Z-category to the Y-category as part of an ongoing review of security deployment for prominent personalities across the state.

Officials confirmed on Wednesday that the decision was taken following a reassessment of threat perceptions and security requirements for individuals receiving special protection. Ganguly, who currently serves as president of the Cricket Association of Bengal and previously headed the Board of Control for Cricket in India, has not issued any public statement regarding the change.

Under the earlier Z-category arrangement, Ganguly was provided an extensive security detail that included around 35 personnel, coordinated support from state police authorities, and a pilot vehicle as part of his movement protocol. The revised Y-category cover significantly reduces the deployment, with only a small team of three to four personnel assigned to his security. This generally includes two armed officers responsible for close protection duties.

The move is part of a broader exercise initiated by the state administration following the change in government after the recent Assembly elections. Officials said the review aims to ensure that security resources are allocated based on current threat assessments and genuine security requirements rather than status or past entitlements.

According to government sources, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari had emphasised the need for a rational and objective approach to the deployment of security personnel soon after assuming office. Authorities were subsequently directed to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of all individuals enjoying enhanced security protection under state arrangements.

The review process has already affected several high-profile figures. Among the earliest cases was that of Abhishek Banerjee, whose additional security provisions were reassessed. Officials had indicated that any security cover beyond what he was entitled to as a Member of Parliament would be withdrawn. Similar reviews were later carried out for a number of senior political leaders, former ministers, and retired police officers.

Government officials maintain that the objective is not to compromise anyone’s safety but to ensure the efficient utilisation of security personnel and public resources. They argue that protection levels should correspond directly to the threat perception determined through periodic assessments.

With the latest decision, Ganguly becomes one of the most prominent public figures to see a revision in security arrangements under the state’s ongoing rationalisation exercise. The review is expected to continue, with authorities periodically reassessing security cover for politicians, former office-bearers, celebrities and other individuals receiving state protection.

Officials indicated that future decisions on security deployment will continue to be guided by professional threat evaluations and operational requirements rather than precedent, as the government seeks to streamline the use of security resources across West Bengal.