Kolkata: Security outside former CM Mamata Banerjee’s Kalighat residence was tightened further on Sunday, with an additional layer of iron barricades installed along the stretch of Harish Chatterjee Street directly overlooking her house.“Though metal barriers were already in place, this time, the height has been substantially increased. Recently, temporary view cutters had been installed. The new railing has been put up right ahead of the view cutter facing the road,” said a local cop.Kolkata Police did not comment on the move. Sources said the additional security measures were taken on the basis of inputs from the Directorate of Security.On Oct 13, a 38-year-old former civic volunteer was detained after she allegedly approached Banerjee in a threatening manner when she stepped out for a puja opening. Police, however, ruled out any malicious intent after questioning her, and she was subsequently released.On Oct 6, during a hearing on the downgrading of Abhishek Banerjee’s security cover from Z-plus to X category, Calcutta High Court sought a report from the state explaining the rationale behind the decision. Unlike Abhishek, Mamata continues to enjoy Z-plus security.Former councillors who regularly visit Banerjee’s residence welcomed the latest security measures.“The manner in which Didi was being attacked and heckled along with other Trinamool workers, it should be the state’s responsibility to ensure security for a three-time CM and one of the seniormost politicians of the country. However, we do not think that a railing should be the centre of discussion at this moment,” said ex-councillor Baiswanor Chattopadhyay.At a meeting with senior police officers at Nabanna in May, CM Suvendu Adhikari had issued strict instructions against any changes to Mamata’s security arrangements. He had also directed police to ensure that the former CM faced neither disrespect nor harassment.Some changes have, however, been made to the security arrangements around her residence. The heavy police deployment that had rendered parts of Harish Chatterjee Street inaccessible has since been withdrawn.In June, a temporary view-blocking screen was erected outside her residence for security reasons. Sources had then said the decision was taken by the Director of Security responsible for protecting her residence.
