Harbhajan Singh gets central CRPF security after Punjab police withdraw cover following AAP exit

Rajya Sabha MP Harbhajan Singh has been provided central security cover by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs following the withdrawal of his state security in Punjab. The former cricketer-turned-politician will now be protected by Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel in both Delhi and Punjab, amid heightened tensions after his recent political shift.

The development comes shortly after Punjab Police reportedly withdrew his earlier security arrangement, which consisted of multiple personnel. Soon after, CRPF commandos were deployed outside his residence in Jalandhar, indicating a swift transition to central protection. The move follows his recent departure from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and entry into the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alongside several other leaders.

The security upgrade also comes in the backdrop of protests by AAP workers outside his residence, where demonstrators raised slogans and defaced property by writing “gaddar” on boundary walls. Similar protests were reported outside the residences of other former AAP leaders who joined the BJP, reflecting growing political tensions following the high-profile defections.

Harbhajan Singh is among a group of parliamentarians, including Raghav Chadha, who recently left AAP and joined the BJP. The mass exit triggered sharp political reactions, with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann reportedly criticising the leaders and questioning their decision to switch parties.

The developments follow internal friction within AAP, including changes in leadership roles and growing differences among senior members. The sudden shift of multiple MPs to the BJP has intensified the political landscape, with security concerns and protests adding to the evolving situation.