Kolkata, June 3: Former India captain and ex-BCCI president Sourav Ganguly will no longer enjoy Z-category security cover in West Bengal after the state government decided to scale down his protection level. The decision has been taken by the newly elected Suvendu Adhikari government in West Bengal.
Ganguly, who currently serves as the President of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), will now be provided Y-category security instead of the higher Z-category cover that he had been receiving in recent years.
The decision was taken following a routine security review conducted by the state administration, according to reports. Security arrangements for high-profile individuals are periodically reassessed based on threat perception and other administrative
factors.
The 52-year-old remains one of the most influential sporting personalities in India. Widely credited with transforming Indian cricket during his tenure as captain, Ganguly continues to hold a prominent position in the country's sporting landscape through his role with the CAB and various administrative engagements.
What Does the Change Mean?
Under the previous Z-category security arrangement, Ganguly was provided with a larger contingent of security personnel, including armed police officers accompanying him during travel and public appearances.
With the downgrade to Y-category security, he will continue to receive protection, albeit with a reduced security detail compared to the Z-category cover.
The move does not imply a complete withdrawal of security but rather a recalibration of the level of protection deemed necessary by authorities.
Ganguly's Continued Public Presence
Despite stepping down as BCCI president in 2022, Ganguly remains a highly visible public figure. He is actively involved in cricket administration as the CAB President and regularly attends domestic and international cricket events.
His stature as one of India's most successful captains, coupled with his administrative roles and public engagements, ensures that he continues to attract significant public attention.
A Cricketing Icon
Ganguly captained India in 49 Tests and 146 ODIs, leading the team through one of the most transformative periods in its history. Under his leadership, India reached the final of the 2003 ODI World Cup and developed a generation of players who would later become global stars.
After retiring from international cricket, he transitioned into administration, eventually becoming the President of the BCCI between 2019 and 2022. He currently heads the Cricket Association of Bengal and remains one of the most influential voices in Indian cricket.
While the reduction in security cover marks an administrative change, Ganguly's standing as one of Indian cricket's most celebrated figures remains unaffected.
