CRPF says no breach in Priyanka Gandhi’s security during visit to Lucknow

The CRPF, which provides Z+ security to Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi, blamed her for 'violations' by riding pillion on a scooter.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in Lucknow on 28 December | PTI

New Delhi: There was no breach in Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s security during her recent trip to Lucknow, the CRPF said on Monday, blaming her for “violations” for travelling as a pillion rider on a scooter.

The force, which provides her armed commandos under the ‘Z+’ category of security cover to her, said the Congress leader undertook “unscheduled” movement without intimation. Therefore, an advanced security liaison (ASL) could not be conducted, it said in a statement.

“During travelling the protectee used non-bullet resistant civil vehicle without a personal security officer,” the statement said.

“The protectee took a lift in scooty as a pillion rider,” it added.

Despite the security constraints, the CRPF provided appropriate security cover, it said.

“Such security lapses are communicated to the protectee and advised for ensuring proper security arrangements,” it said.

Gandhi was in Uttar Pradesh’s capital city Lucknow on December 28 and alleged that threats were issued to her security personnel by local police and that she was warned to restrict her movements.