The Mohan Charan Majhi government has withdrawn almost all security from Naveen Nivas, the residence of former chief minister Naveen Patnaik.

Now, only two constables in the rank of havildars will act as PSOs and provide the required security. Earlier, Naveen enjoyed the Z plus security and now he is being put under the Y category security.

Earlier, 23 security officials were deployed at Naveen Nivas. Sources said the piloting system and the vehicle given to Naveen will soon be withdrawn.

“There is nothing wrong in withdrawing Naveen Nivas’s security. The government has withdrawn the security, citing that Naveen is not entitled to it. Naveen now enjoys the cabinet minister status,” said a source.

After the BJD lost the election, the government withdrew half of its security and deployed only 23 personnel in Naveen Nivas.

Sources close to Naveen Nivas said: “Naveen is least concerned about it. He has been paying his electricity dues and phone bills for the last 24 years. He has his staff, including the cook. He has been paying their salaries from his pocket.”

It further said: “In many states, the leader of Opposition enjoys several facilities. But this is unfortunate. It speaks of their state of mind.”

In a related development, Naveen has kept the two senior PSOs who retired from the government service with him. With the security withdrawn, Naveen Nivas has been exposed to security threats.

Official sources said, “The former chief ministers are given two PSOs. More security is provided only when there is a security threat. Besides, when the leader of Opposition tours the districts, the local administration provides the required security and support.”

The BJD has decided not to react. “The people will judge. We don’t need to react to it,” said a leader.