'Arrangements in place to thwart terror threats'

The Sports Ministry on Thursday asserted that participating countries in this year's Commonwealth Games have not raised any security concerns about travelling to India and "elaborate arrangements" have been made to thwart any terror threat.

Responding to a question in Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Sports Pratik Prakashbapu Patil said, "The Ministry of Home Affairs and Delhi have set up an International Security Liaison Group (ISLG) to ensure safety of their delegates and sportspersons."

"The ISLG has been in constant touch with participating countries with a view to discuss security plans and address their security concerns. The ISLG has also been organizing collective and individual briefings of the participating countries to apprise them of the elaborate arrangements being made to thwart any terrorist attempt," he added.

However, star athletes like Australian swimmer Stephanie Rice have expressed security concerns about travelling to India.

Patil said extensive planning is in place to counter threats.

"Delhi police has prepared a detailed plan in this regard for providing a safe and secure environment for successfully staging the Commonwealth Games. This plan includes safety and security of visiting heads of state, athletes, officials, foreign media personnel and spectators.

It will ensure maintenance of law and order and smooth flow of traffic during the Games," he said.