MUMBAI: Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’ security has been significantly enhanced following a warning from central intelligence agencies about a potential threat to his life. The alert comes just weeks before the Maharashtra Assembly elections, scheduled for November 20, 2024.

According to reports, the intelligence agencies issued two consecutive alerts indicating a possible risk to Fadnavis’ life, prompting authorities to bolster his ‘Z plus’ security cover with ex-Force One personnel. The intercepted communications suggested that certain groups might be planning an attack on the BJP leader.

Earlier, the state police upgraded the security of Fadnavis with 12 ex-Force One commandos as a precautionary measure, citing security reasons in view of the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly election. In response to the intelligence alert the state police conducted a thorough review of his security arrangements and increased it accordingly, said sources. Additional security measures have been implemented at his official residence in Mumbai and his home in Nagpur. The enhanced security will also accompany him during public events and campaign activities.

The alert and subsequent security enhancement came in the wake of the recent assassination of NCP leader Baba Siddique in Mumbai’s Bandra area. The incident has heightened concerns about the safety of top political leaders in the state as the election date approaches. Fadnavis, who also serves as the state’s Home Minister, has been advised to exercise caution and remain vigilant, despite this heightened security, Fadnavis continues to actively participate in the election campaign, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public safety and security.