CRPF to Take Over Vice President’s Security with ‘Z+’ Cover Following Fresh Threat Review

New Delhi: The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) will now provide ‘Z+’ category security to the Vice President of India, ANI reported citing government sources. Elite CRPF commandos from its VIP security wing will handle the close protection of the country’s second-highest constitutional authority, following a fresh threat assessment by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and inputs from the Intelligence Bureau.

While a verbal directive has already been issued, an official written order is expected soon. Sources indicated that the CRPF could formally assume charge as early as Wednesday.

Under the revised security arrangement, the Delhi Police will continue managing outer cordons, access control, and perimeter checks, while the CRPF takes charge of close-in protection duties.

‘Z+’ is one of the highest security classifications in India and requires the deployment of over 55 armed personnel, including commandos, escorts, and support staff. The personnel assigned are specially trained in counter-terror operations, close combat, evacuation drills, and high-threat response. The move is also aligned with updates to the Blue Book, India’s official manual on VIP security protocols.

The CRPF already protects several high-risk dignitaries, and the Vice President will now be added to this list.

The new security arrangement comes shortly after CP Radhakrishnan was elected as the 15th Vice President of India. Radhakrishnan, who also serves as the ex-officio Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, secured 452 votes in the vice-presidential election. His rival, opposition candidate B Sudershan Reddy, received 300 votes. Officials noted signs of cross-voting in Radhakrishnan’s favour, with BJP leaders claiming at least 15 opposition members backed the NDA nominee.