Sat Jan 18 17:00:04 UTC 2025: ## Uttar Pradesh Govt. Restores Security for BJP Leader After Outcry

**LUCKNOW, January 18, 2025** – The Uttar Pradesh government has reinstated the Y-category state security for senior BJP leader and former Union Minister Dr. Sanjeev Balyan. The decision follows a public outcry after the security detail was withdrawn earlier this week.

BJP MLA Nand Kishor Gurjar, in a letter to the Principal Secretary (Home), argued that the removal of Mr. Balyan’s security was disrespectful to Western Uttar Pradesh. He described Mr. Balyan as a highly influential leader, alleging that certain officers, acting as agents of the opposition Samajwadi Party (SP), were deliberately targeting the BJP.

The security withdrawal came after a confrontation between Mr. Balyan and the local administration in Muzaffarnagar over a proposed distillery. Mr. Balyan, a two-term Lok Sabha MP, subsequently wrote to the Chief Minister, warning that the state government would be held responsible for any attacks against him. He cited a previous attack during the 2024 parliamentary elections.

Mr. Balyan’s security has now been restored, with eight policemen, including four armed officers, deployed at his residence. The incident highlights recent tensions between some BJP and NDA leaders and local administrations in Uttar Pradesh.

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