The Centre has accorded 'Y+' VIP security cover to veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty who recently joined the Bharatiya Janata Party, official sources said on Wednesday.
They said the security cover will be provided by the Central Industrial Security Force that has a dedicated wing for this task, called the special security group.
The 70-year-old actor had joined the BJP on Sunday at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mega rally at the Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata.
"Chakraborty has been given a 'Y+' cover and armed CISF commandos will accompany him during poll campaign in West Bengal," a senior officer said.
Election to the 294-member West Bengal assembly will be held in eight phases between March 27 and April 29.
A threat perception report prepared by central security agencies recently recommended to the home ministry for a security cover to the national award-winning actor.
BJP MP from Jharkhand Nishikant Dubey will also be accorded with a similar cover that involves about 4-5 armed commandos protecting the person.
With these new inductions, the CISF now protects a total of 104 VIPs, including National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat.
'I'm a cobra': Mithun Chakraborty joins BJP
'Mithun dreams of becoming Bengal CM'
The Cult of Mithun Chakraborty
Bengal outcome will have national repercussions
Battle Royale: BJP pits Suvendu against Mamata