Tamil Nadu: The Ministry of Home Affairs has granted ‘Y’ scale security to actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party president, C Joseph Vijay, in Tamil Nadu.

This new security arrangement, which includes a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) component, will ensure round-the-clock protection for the 50-year-old actor-turned-politician. According to police sources, the security cover will include personal security officers (PSOs) who will be tasked with safeguarding Vijay, along with an armed guard assigned to protect his residence and place of stay. Out of the eight personnel assigned, two will be commandos, while the remaining members will be police officers.

The enhanced security cover for Vijay has been specifically provided in Tamil Nadu, where the actor is actively involved in politics. 

Understanding the ‘Y’ category security 

The ‘Y’ scale security cover typically involves eight personnel, which includes one or two commandos, with additional police officers included in the team. This security arrangement is designed to provide a basic level of protection for individuals in the public domain who may be facing moderate security risks. The cover also includes one or two vehicles for added safety.

The 4 tiers of security in India

In India, there are four primary categories of security detail – X, Y, Z, and Z+ – each assigned based on an individual’s perceived threat level.

The most basic level, X security, consists of two armed civil police officers. These officers rotate every eight hours, meaning six officers are on duty at all times. This level does not include specialised commandos.

The Z security category is more comprehensive, involving 22 personnel, including 4-5 NSG commandos, along with civil police officers. This level of protection also includes an escort vehicle. 

The highest tier of security is Z+, which provides an entourage of 55 personnel, including 10 NSG commandos. Z+ security is typically reserved for individuals facing significant threats, such as senior government officials or other influential figures. It often includes additional protection from the Special Protection Group (SPG), particularly for the Prime Minister and their family.

Political entry of Vijay  

In February 2024, Vijay made his formal political debut, announcing his intention to contest the 2026 Assembly elections. As part of his political journey, he launched his party’s flag and flag song at the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam’s headquarters in Panaiyur, near Chennai, on August 22. Within three weeks of this launch, Vijay announced on social media that the Election Commission of India (ECI) had recognised the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam as a registered political party.

The party held its first state-level conference on October 27, 2024, in Vikravandi, Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu, just eight months after its formation. 

In terms of his acting career, Vijay’s upcoming Tamil movie 'Jana Nayagan', directed by H. Vinoth, will mark his last appearance as an actor. This film will serve as the actor’s final outing in the film industry, as he shifts his focus entirely to politics.