No-fly zone over the hotel ; comprehensive checks for CBRN threats

New Delhi : Security arrangements for Chinese President Xi Jinping during his 24-hour visit to India are unprecedented, ranging from the imposition of a temporary no-fly zone over his hotel to checks for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) threats.

These security measures have been implemented primarily to counter potential threats from attacks or protests by Tibetan activists. Beijing has warned against the use of drones, banners, loudspeakers, and balloons for anti-China propaganda and has requested effective measures to keep out low-altitude aerial objects and other UAVs.

Xi Jinping arrived in Delhi on Saturday at approximately 11:50 AM. He is accompanied by a 67-member delegation comprising senior political figures, diplomats, security officials, and medical staff.

“All security-related matters and concerns raised by foreign governments are being addressed in coordination with the Delhi Police and other agencies, in accordance with the Ministry of External Affairs’ protocol,” an official source stated. Ten days prior to the visit, China had dispatched a cargo plane carrying Xi’s ‘Hongqi’ (Red Flag) state limousine, a backup vehicle, communication equipment, and other supplies.

India permits foreign delegations to bring their own communication equipment, subject to approval from the Department of Telecommunications. Satellite communication equipment is not permitted. Regarding arms and ammunition, pistols are permitted, but items such as submachine guns and anti-drone equipment cannot be imported and must be surrendered to Customs upon arrival at the airport.

In addition to attending a session of the BRICS Summit on Saturday, Xi will hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and later join him for a state dinner.

Chinese officials have requested Indian authorities to allow Xi’s staff access to the kitchen so they can taste certain dishes on the menu and ensure they align with the President’s dietary preferences.

Much like the millet-based menu served during the G20 summit, the meal this time is also likely to be vegetarian.

Beyond the deployment of counter-terrorism forces and anti-explosive equipment, comprehensive security checks covering anti-nuclear, anti-radiation, and anti-biochemical measures were conducted at the hotel prior to Xi’s arrival. Security protocols also included inspections of the underground pipeline network. Xi will stay in India for 24 hours and depart for the airport from Bharat Mandapam at around 11 AM on Sunday.

Report – Abhijit Tushar Bhatt (Political Editor)