Former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique was shot dead on Saturday in Mumbai. The attackers ambushed him near his son Zeeshan's office during Dussehra festivities. Witnesses reported that the gunmen fired at least six bullets, four of which hit the 66-year-old in the chest.
Baba Siddique only had non-categorised security and three policemen had been assigned to him for his protection, the Mumbai Police said.
Security Categories in India
X, Y, Z and Z+ security represent varying levels of protection provided to individuals, shielding them from potential threats. Each level indicates the number of personnel assigned to ensure safety, with teams often sourced from agencies like the NSG, SPG, CRPF and ITBP.
The government assigns these security details based on an individual's perceived risk level.
X Security
The most basic level of security, X Security, comprises two armed civil police officers. Although it may seem minimal, it is for individuals who may not qualify for higher levels. The personnel rotate every eight hours, totalling six officers on duty throughout the day. This category does not include any specialised commandos.
Y Security
Next is Y Security, which has an 11-member entourage. This includes 1-2 NSG commandos alongside civil police officers. This level is generally assigned to individuals who face specific threats. Known figures, including Kangana Ranaut and filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri, and recently Baba Siddique were provided this protection due to credible threats.
Z Security
Z Security escalates the protection level, providing an entourage of 22 personnel, including 4-5 NSG commandos and civil police. This category includes an escort vehicle for added security. Celebrities such as Baba Ramdev and Aamir Khan have been granted Z-level protection due to their high-profile status.
Z+ Security
At the highest tier, Z+ Security offers the most comprehensive protection with an entourage of 55 personnel. This includes 10 NSG commandos and is typically reserved for individuals facing significant threats, such as top government officials and influential personalities. The Z+ level often involves additional coverage from the Special Protection Group (SPG), especially for the Prime Minister and their family, introduced following the assassination of Indira Gandhi in 1988.
