As the Olympic torch relay faced disruptions in London and Paris, India on Monday said it would ensure smooth run of the flame in New Delhi with "respect and security" as discussions continued in the government on measures to provide foolproof protection.
With China worried over the India-leg of the torch relay because of presence of large number of Tibetans, top officials of the government are busy in chalking out the arrangements to ensure trouble-free event on April 17.
China is also understood to have indicated that a team of its commandos will arrive in India a few days ahead of the torch relay and would provide the proximate security to the flame during its run on Rajpath.
"As far as India is concerned, we are committed to providing complete security to the Olympic torch," Minister of State for External Affairs Anand Sharma told reporters.
Asked about reports that China would be sending security personnel for the torch relay here, Sharma said he had no knowledge about it but maintained that the Indian government has given an assurance that it will take all measures to provide foolproof security.
"We are confident of ensuring the relay of the torch in India with respect and security. Our officers and security agencies are capable of providing complete security to the Olympic torch," he said.
The issue of torch security is understood to have figured in a meeting between foreign secretary and home secretary Madhukar Gupta.
