Former Indian tennis star Leander Paes has his security beefed up ahead of the West Bengal Assembly Elections. Paes, who previously represented Trinamool Congress, is now contesting with the Bhartiya Janata Party. The 52-year-old's security was approved by the Union Ministry and will be handled by CISF personnel.

Former tennis star Leander Paes has been granted X-category security by the Ministry of Home Affairs, with protection to be provided by personnel from the Central Industrial Security Force.

The decision comes just a week after Paes officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in Delhi, signaling a new chapter in his public life ahead of upcoming elections.

Officials said the X-category cover includes the deployment of CISF personnel and has been approved amid heightened political activity, particularly in West Bengal.

Paes, 52, described his move to the BJP as “not just a formality but a responsibility,” adding that it offers him a chance to serve the nation. He was previously associated with the Trinamool Congress, which is currently in power in West Bengal.