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The move is significant because, for the first time, even ministers and other leaders enjoying security cover are being equipped with bulletproof jackets
Akhilesh Yadav; Yogi Adityanath (right).
Ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, the Yogi Adityanath government has stepped up the security cover for political leaders, with 44 VIPs, including ministers and Opposition leaders, being provided bulletproof jackets.
The move is significant because, for the first time, even ministers and other leaders enjoying security cover are being equipped with bulletproof jackets — taking their protection a step beyond the conventional armed security personnel deployed with them.
Among those who have reportedly received the jackets are Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, BSP supremo Mayawati, Cabinet Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar and Nand Gopal Gupta ‘Nandi’. The jackets are estimated to cost around Rs 10 lakh each.
The protective gear has been distributed to leaders based on their security requirements and threat perception. The move comes months ahead of the crucial 2027 Assembly elections, when ministers and senior political leaders are expected to undertake extensive tours and campaign programmes across Uttar Pradesh.
The development also cuts across political lines. While senior BJP leaders and ministers form part of the list, prominent Opposition figures such as Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati have also been provided the protective equipment.
Interestingly, the exercise has thrown up a lighter, practical problem for some ministers. Some of those provided the jackets reportedly said they did not know how to wear them properly, prompting the need for familiarisation and training.
The bulletproof jackets are meant to provide an additional layer of protection in situations where a threat is assessed to be high. Until now, ministers and other protected leaders have primarily relied on their armed security personnel for protection.
The decision to equip the protectees themselves with ballistic protection assumes added significance in the run-up to the 2027 polls, when political activity is expected to intensify and senior leaders will spend considerable time on the campaign trail.
With 44 leaders now having access to the specialised protective gear, Uttar Pradesh’s security apparatus appears to be preparing not just for routine VIP movement but also for the heightened political activity expected ahead of the Assembly elections.
Key Questions Answered
Ask News18The provision of bulletproof jackets to political leaders is intended to offer an additional layer of protection during extensive tours and campaign programmes across Uttar Pradesh ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. This move enhances security beyond conventional armed personnel, particularly in high-threat situations.
Ask News18August 21, 2026, 6:07 PM IST
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