The security cover of Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju has been upgraded to the highest level of Z-plus by the government following a threat from a number of militant groups of the northeast.

Rijiju till now had 'Z plus' category cover provided by the elite commando unit of paramilitary CISF across India but now this will be further enhanced. The decision has been taken after an intensive review of his security cover by intelligence agencies.

A threat to Rijiju is perceived from a host of insurgent groups for his vocal statements against insurgency, Muslim fundamentalists, stepped-up offensive against militants and the ministerial position held by him, official sources said.

Requisites of security arrangements to be made for a Z-plus protectee are contained in the 'Yellow Book' which are being implemented, the sources said.

A recent assessment indicates a severe threat to Rijiju's life from a newly-formed conglomerate called United National Liberation front of West and South-East Asia comprising NSCN-K, ULFA and other rebel groups. "Keeping in view the threat quotient of Rijiju, it is imperative that the security arrangements made for him is robust and in tune with the guidelines contained in the Yellow Book," an official order said.