Fortress Delhi rolls out red carpet

As many as 2,000 personnel from Delhi Police, National Security Guards (NSG), Special Protection Group (SPG) have been assigned to secure Clinton’s visit to the Capital. Tanya Ashreena & Karan Choudhary reports.

As many as 2,000 personnel from Delhi Police, National Security Guards (NSG), Special Protection Group (SPG) have been assigned to secure Clinton’s visit to the Capital on Sunday.

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“The security for her is equivalent to the security cover provided to state heads,” a senior police officer said. Barricades were placed several hundred meters from the main arrival terminal at Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Clinton is being provided what is called a four-tier security. “The outer-most ring is secured by Delhi Police commandoes. NSG commandoes provide the second ring. The third cover is by the SPG and the last is that of Secret Service agents and personnel bodyguards of the head of state,” added the officer.

Additional PCR vans and ambulances were deployed near the Taj Palace hotel and the area cordoned off. Special passes were provided to the residents of Akbar Road, as entry to the area was restricted. Later, on Sunday, Clinton also visited Dilli Haat.

No frills entry at Taj

The Taj Palace Hotel in Delhi did not go out of its way to welcome Clinton. Rather, it was all very simple and low-key.

“As soon as Clinton entered at 5 PM, she was greeted by all the hotel officials with a tikka and a flower garland,” a hotel official said.

Clinton is reportedly quite fond of spicy food, and lists Indian food among her favourite cuisines. “We were informed that Clinton loves curry. However, she also believes in eating healthy, and eats lots of vegetables and salads. So, we kept this in mind while making her meal. We wanted the food to be perfect for her,” the official added.