Former tennis star Leander Paes has been granted X category security by the Union Home Ministry, with CISF personnel assigned for his protection, days after his entry into the Bharatiya Janata Party.
The move comes amid heightened political activity ahead of key state elections, including West Bengal, where Paes is expected to play an active role.
Officials said Paes will receive X category security cover, which includes deployment of CISF personnel.
The decision by the Ministry of Home Affairs comes as the former athlete steps into a more visible political role.
FROM TMC TO BJP
Paes, 52, joined the BJP in Delhi last week, calling the move “not just a formality but a responsibility” and an opportunity to serve the nation.
Before joining the BJP, he was associated with the Trinamool Congress led by Mamata Banerjee and had campaigned for the party in earlier elections.
His switch has drawn criticism from the TMC, which described him as an “outsider” being brought into state politics.
STAR CAMPAIGNER FOR BENGAL POLLS
The BJP has included Paes in its list of star campaigners for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections.
He features alongside top national leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, as well as public figures such as Mithun Chakraborty and Kangana Ranaut.
The move reflects the party’s strategy of combining political leadership with popular public personalities to expand its outreach in the state.
FOCUS ON YOUTH AND SPORTS
Speaking after joining the party, Paes praised the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and spoke about India’s “transformative journey” over the past decade.
“With deep faith in the leadership of our Prime Minister, I have joined the Bharatiya Janata Party,” he said.
He also spoke of his connection to West Bengal and his focus on youth development and sports-led nation-building.
“I was born in Bengal and come from a family of Olympians I strongly believe that sport plays a vital role in nation-building,” he said.
Paes added that West Bengal “deserves better” and expressed confidence in contributing to India’s growth story.
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