The Olympic flame has reached India’s capital, Delhi. In order to prevent any incidents, around 15,000 police officers and commandos were called on duty to guard the city’s center where the torch relay will be held.

The flame started its route at the Delhi airport, where it was received by the chief of the Indian Olympic Association, Suresh Kalmadi. Fearing the protesters, city officials did not give out the exact times of the relay. Many roads were closed, causing huge traffic jams, in order for the police to later choose a route. Because of security issues, the path was shortened from its initial 5 miles to almost 2 miles.

Police officials handed out blankets and extinguishers in order to prevent protesters from setting themselves or anything else on fire.

The celebration has had many unfortunate occurrences all over the world, in cities such as London, Paris and San Francisco. The pro-Tibet protesters have planned strong appearances all over the world in order for their cause to be noticed.

Thousands of Tibetans have gathered in New Delhi to protest and are expected to organize their own torch march. Indian athletes have been urged to boycott the relay and residents were asked to wear the “Free Tibet” T-shirts and also wave Tibetan flags.

The Associated Press quoted the Students for a Free Tibet saying: "By speaking out when the Chinese government brings the Olympic torch to India, you will send a strong message to Tibetans, to the Chinese government, and to the world, that Indians support the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people's nonviolent struggle for freedom and justice."