Chidambaram to allay terror fears of Games participants

With the security situation in the sub-continent deteriorating, home minister P Chidambaram and Commonwealth Games organisers have decided to hold a detailed briefing for high commissioners of all the 71 participating countries to assure them of player safety.

Delhi Police commandos would accompany all contingents wherever they go. Quick reaction teams of central paramilitary forces would also be roped in to guard the players. Senior officers said the elite National Security Guard could also be sounded in case of a specific threat.

“We will hold a full-scale security briefing with the home minister and high commissioners of all participating countries. The home minister will provide in-depth information on the measures taken for security of players,” Suresh Kalmadi, chairman, Commonwealth Games Organising Committee, said at a function here recently.

Terrorists had recently targeted the Sri Lankan cricket team touring Pakistan. The attack had a ripple effect in Delhi as the home ministry called for a review of the security plan for Commonwealth Games and Delhi Police were asked to make changes in it.

Senior officers said separate committees had been formed, including all members of the security establishment, to provide inputs on the gadgets needed to provide fool-proof security to Games participants.  

Sources in the home ministry said security of visiting players would be top priority because Commonwealth Games are a matter of prestige for the country. They said elaborate security drills would be carried out to iron out flaws, if any.  “Delhi Police would act as the nodal agency but other security establishments would also provide inputs,” said an officer.