On Mulayam, Centre runs for cover

The letter had sent the UP police into a tizzy as it meant arranging security outside the state as well. What complicated the issue was the fact that the UP government had received a letter dated August 5, signed by Harminder Raj Singh, joint secretary, internal security, saying that there was no move to withdraw the security cover.

Today, Nair contacted Home Minister Shivraj Patil who clarified that the Ministry of Home had not sent any such proposal. ‘‘I had a telephone conversation with the Union Home Minister today who informed me that there was no change in the Chief Minister’s security paraphernalia and status quo ante would be maintained. The IB letter is a mistake,’’ said Nair.

The meeting of the security categorisation committee of the IB held on July 13, 2004 at New Delhi had decided that since the UP chief minister did not fulfil the norms laid down for central security categorisation, the NSG cover should be withdrawn. Sources in the Home Ministry cited low threat perception as a reason. But the ministry, they add, later realised that it would become a political issue.

When contacted, Yadav refused to comment. ‘‘It is a personal matter and I don’t want to comment on it,’’ he said.

Among the leaders who lost NSG cover is former Chief Minister and BJP leader Rajnath Singh.