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IB had alerted all states about threat to Modi in September

Last updated on: October 27, 2013 22:48 IST

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Sunday claimed that there was no intelligence report to suggest that some elements were targeting Narendra Modi’s rally in Patna. However, the fact is that on September 24, 2013, a fresh alert was sounded by the Intelligence Bureau and passed on to all states, including Bihar, in the wake of Modi being‎ declared the Bharatiya Janata Party’s prime ministerial candidate.

Several outfits were attempting to target him and all states where he visits should remain on high alert and maximum security ought to be provided to him, the alert stated.

The report also stated that Modi’s threat perception has been classified as very high and security should be beefed up each time he visited any place.

A source in the Intelligence Bureau says this advisory was passed on to all states. The police in Kerala, Delhi and Tamil Nadu even stated that in wake of a fresh threat perception for Modi and a new advisory, they were ensuring that no stone remains unturned where his security was concerned.

The Tiruchi police had even gone on record to state that a meeting to this effect was conducted and extraordinary measures were warranted to ensure that no security lapse takes place.

IB officials say the state police sometimes expect to be spoon-fed. “We had issued the alert and cannot go on doing the same each time as though it is some kind of a reminder. The threat perception where Modi is concerned is rated A plus and it is the duty of the local police and administration to ensure that all security measures are taken.”

The officer also added that they pick up intercepts regarding Modi on a daily basis. “Not only is he a potential target for extremist Islamic outfits but there is also a danger of political rivals using pseudo-organisations to try and eliminate him.”

Vicky Nanjappa