Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned to Delhi on April 29 night after completing his second and final campaign programme for the West Bengal elections, travelling to Sikkim for two days of engagements, and then visiting his constituency Varanasi. He had stayed outside the national capital for four days.
The Prime Minister is protected by the Special Protection Group (SPG). Officials noted that providing security becomes more challenging when he is outside Delhi, especially during election-time roadshows, when arrangements are described as particularly demanding.
Soon after returning to Delhi, Modi hosted a dinner at the SPG headquarters in Dwarka for around 4,500 SPG personnel, including drivers. The gesture has been widely appreciated in official circles.
During the event, he reportedly acknowledged the difficulties faced by the security team and thanked them for standing as a shield around him, also expressing gratitude to God. Those who attended said it came as a pleasant surprise, as such a dinner and public thanks to the SPG by a Prime Minister is said to be unprecedented.
The Prime Minister’s aides also attended. The report noted that he has five personal assistants who travel with him and handle various requirements, including clothing and other essentials.
