Even as Mumbai continues to be on the radar of terror groups, the state police is busy protecting the VIPs. According to the response to an RTI application, more than 1500 policemen provided security cover to VIPs or were on bandobast duties.

The number of people who availed police protection was 253 in 2007. The corresponding figure for 2008 and 2009 increased to 316 and 361 respectively.

Chetan Kothari got his information in response to an RTI application in which he sought details of film stars, businessmen, politicians, builders and others who were given police protection over the past three years.

Politicians topped the list of those who enjoy police protection, followed by businessmen and builders.

The number of politicians enjoying police protection rose from 92 in 2007 to 111 in 2009.

While 14 film stars moved around with security cover in 2007, the figure went up to 20 in 2009.

On average, more than 500 police personnel are deployed for protection annually.

According to the response to the RTI application, it costs Rs 397 to deploy a police constable for an eight-hour shift while a sub-inspector costs Rs 708.