C'Weath Games baton refused entry into Kerala assembly complex

The Queen's Baton Relay of the Commonwealth Games, which began its tour of Kerala today, was declined entry in to the state assembly complex as local organisers had failed to inform the legislative officials of it's itinerary in advance.

When the baton convoy reached the main gate of legislature complex, security officials deployed there declined it entry, saying they did not have any advance intimation on the baton's arrival.

According to sources, the QBR authorities and local organisers of the journey did not intimate Speaker K Radhakrishnan or his office about the itinerary.

"We would not have any reluctance in welcoming the relay and according it due honour. However, we should have been informed in advance about it," sources in the speaker's office said.

Meanwhile, after covering various spots in the city including the government secretariat, the relay was given a rousing reception at the Chandrasekharan Nair stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.

Chief minister VS Achuthanandan received the baton from ace athlete KN Beenamol. The baton will move to Kochi tomorrow on its way to Lakshwadweep islands.