Restore 'Z' category security for me: Azam Khan tells UP govt

BAREILLY: Expressing security concerns on Sunday, Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Azam Khan requested the UP government to "reinstate his 'Z' category security", citing "threats" since he faces several cases.
The Rampur Sadar MLA said, "I had 'Z' category security earlier. It was withdrawn by the present state government. Even a senior police officer recommended it. 'Y' category security is being offered to me at present, but it looks similar to the security cover provided to every MLA (which is usually a lower category). I want my earlier security to be reinstated as I face many threats due to all the cases filed against me."
Rampur SP Ashok Kumar told TOI, "We did not receive any application from Azam Khan to upgrade his security. He has been provided 'Y' category security and the required numbers of security guards are always with him. However, I will ask the local intelligence unit to evaluate the threat level and will write to the state government accordingly."
Under the 'Y' category security cover, a protectee is normally provided with around a dozen security personnel, including two personal security officers.
Azam was released in May on bail after being lodged in Sitapur jail for more than two years.
He was booked in about 90 cases, and successfully contested the 2022 assembly polls from the jail.
Azam, meanwhile, heaped praises on the Supreme Court. "There is still justice in the country and the apex court proved it," he said. On July 22, the SC had set aside the conditions laid by the HC while granting bail to the SP leader.