IT'S not just headlining politicians who need security, but smaller ones too
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IT'S not just headlining politicians who need security, but smaller ones too. In fact, they are taking on safari-clad security guards, bullet-proof vehicles as escorts, and gunmen to protect them. But while the biggies are provided security, the smaller lot has to hire them.
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Each guard costs around Rs 30,000. Security agencies who had hoped to make money with the IPL say that they are now being approached by politicians instead. Jocelyn Pereira, general manager, Red Boy Security Private Limited, confirmed this.
"With the increase in threat, politicians want to play it safe. They want gunmen, escort vehicles and bodyguards for safety. I provide these. Maruti Gypsies give the security convey a good look and feel," he said.
However, an official from a security agency kept it straight. "By having gunmen and safari-suit clad bodyguards, politicians assume the people think them to be great political leaders. Many just show off and it does pay off. However, there are still many who require security after the terror attack."
Haji Mohammed Ali Shaikh, a BSP candidate admits he has got boys from his area as security guards and that he gave them safaris to wear. "These boys are ready to give their lives for me. I have asked them to wear safaris because this makes them look powerful. It gives an impact and I do need security," said Haji.
Deepak Monga, deputy manager, Topsline, also confirmed that politicians have approached them for security personnel during elections. "Most politicians demand for the executive protection officer; these are the men who wear safaris and are well-trained. These guards are trained and are of the level of the commandos," he said.
IPL shift
With IPL's shift to South Africa, the security agencies are one of the biggest losers. According to Pereira, he was charging Rs 2,000 per day for each security personnel. However, the politicians offer around Rs 30,000 per month per person.
A gunman can earn around Rs 1,000 to 1,500 per day during elections. This amount is about 50 per cent lower than what they would have earned during IPL. "IPL would have ensured us good business, but then the organisers decided to move it on grounds of security. They should have at least consulted us; we would have ensured that there were no issues with security. Even in the last season it was us who provided the maximum security."
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