Kalmadi assures smooth staging of Olympic Torch relay

China was considering bypassing India if it was not sure of foolproof protection in the country after the security breach by a group of Tibetan protestors.

Indian Olympic Association on Wednesday assured that adequate measures will be in place for a smooth staging of the Beijing Olympic torch relay in the national capital on April 17.

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It was learnt that China was considering bypassing India if it was not sure of foolproof protection in the country after the security breach by a group of Tibetan protestors who stormed into its Embassy here last week.

"I met the officials of the Chinese Embassy on Tuesday. We have finalised the route for the torch relay and also the cultural events to be performed next month. In fact, China is sending their team to stage the cultural events. There is no concern," IOA President Suresh Kalmadi told PTI.

"Lieutenant Governor (Tejinder Khanna) has also assured full security. We are fully in touch with each other," he added.

China is also worried as the launch of the Olympic torch relay in Greece on Monday was marred by breach of security by Tibetans.

China is set to host the Olympic Games in Beijing from August 8 to 24.