No Breach In Priyanka Gandhi's Security In UP: CRPF On Lucknow Row

There was no breach in Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s security during her recent trip to Lucknow, the CRPF said on Monday, blaming her for “violations” for travelling as a pillion rider on a scooter. The force, which provides her armed commandos under the ‘Z+’ category of security cover to her, said the Congress leader undertook “unscheduled” movement without intimation. Therefore, an advanced security liaison (ASL) could not be conducted, it said in a statement.

“During travelling the protectee used non-bullet resistant civil vehicle without a personal security officer,” the statement said.

“The protectee took a lift in scooty as a pillion rider,” it added.

Despite the security constraints, the CRPF provided appropriate security cover, it said.

“Such security lapses are communicated to the protectee and advised for ensuring proper security arrangements,” it said.

Priyanka Gandhi was on her way to Darapuri's, accompanied by several other Congress leaders, when she was stopped by the police at Lohia Path in the Uttar Pradesh capital. She then hitched a ride on the two-wheeler driven by Gurjar.

Narrating the sequence of events, Priyanka told reporters, "As we were on our way, a police vehicle came and the policemen said you cannot go. I asked them 'why'. And was told that we will not be allowed to move ahead,"

"I got off the vehicle and started walking. I was surrounded and a woman cop held me by my throat. Another woman cop pushed me and I fell down. I was forcibly stopped and a woman officer pulled me up by my neck. But I was determined. I am standing with every citizen who has faced police oppression. This is my 'satyagraha'."

UP Congress chief Ajay Kumar Lallu said, "The government is feeling scared of Priyankaji. Hence, she was stopped."

Later in a statement issued here, the Congress said, "Police cars came in speed and blocked the car of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Priyankaii's car had a close shave. Then the police tried to stop her and called more police force."

The statement alleged, "There were only two women police personnel and all male police personnel were also trying to stop her physically."