No long line of vehicles? Only pilot and escort vehicles; V D Satheesan signals change in security style

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: When V D Satheesan is about to be sworn in as the new Chief Minister of Kerala, he has signaled a change in the style of security. The chief minister-designate has directed top police officials that there is no need for the additional security provided to the chief minister and that no other vehicles other than the pilot and escort vehicles are required.

He has also asked not to trouble the public when the chief minister is travelling. VD Satheesan gave the security-related instructions during a meeting with top police officials. His stand is that there is no need for police and escort. However, the police officials informed that it was mandatory.

Former chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, was provided Z-plus category security. Additional security was provided considering the life-threatening situation. Pinarayi used to travel in a large convoy of seven vehicles. There were thirty to forty police officers in the police team. In addition, a striker force of commandos was also with him.

The police have closed the roads leading to the chief minister's route and imposed traffic restrictions and parking restrictions until he reaches his destination. The special branch is preparing the plan for the police deployment.