Shivraj Singh Chouhan's Residence Transformed into Security Fortress Following ISI Threat Intelligence

Security measures were intensified at Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's residences in both Bhopal and Delhi on Friday following intelligence reports warning about a potential threat from Pakistan's intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence.

By Saturday morning, Chouhan's combined B-8, B-9 bungalow, popularly referred to as 'Mama Ka Ghar', was transformed from its historically welcoming atmosphere into a high-security zone. The deployment of heavily armed personnel, metal barriers, and movement restrictions converted the 74 Bungalows area, one of Bhopal's most secure neighborhoods, into a fortified compound.

According to reliable sources who spoke to NDTV, intelligence inputs suggested that the ISI was collecting information about Chouhan. After receiving this intelligence, a formal notification was sent to relevant agencies, consultations were conducted with central security organizations, threat assessments were reviewed, and subsequently, security protocols were enhanced at his residences in both Bhopal and Delhi.

Chouhan already benefits from Z+ category security, among the highest protection levels available in India, which was approved by the Union Home Ministry in December 2018 shortly after he left his position as Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister following the 2023 Assembly elections. Z+ security includes elite commando units, armored vehicles, sophisticated surveillance, and equipment, ranking second only to the Special Protection Group (SPG) coverage provided to the Prime Minister.

Bhopal Police Commissioner Harinarayanchari Mishra confirmed the security enhancement.

In response to the increased security measures, Mukesh Nayak, Congress state media wing head and former minister, alleged political motivations behind the move. "His supporters are presenting the security upgrade as an indication of a forthcoming significant political appointment. In truth, the central government determined that the existing security arrangements in the state were insufficient, which explains why security has been suddenly strengthened," stated Nayak.

In January 2024, after relocating from the Chief Minister's residence following Dr Mohan Yadav's appointment as Chief Minister, Chouhan renamed the bungalow 'Mama Ka Ghar', declaring it a symbol of trust and accessibility. "The address has changed, but Mama Ka Ghar will remain Mama Ka Ghar. My doors will always remain open," he had announced, welcoming people to visit without reservation.