Massive security cover for Sania Mirza

Kolkata, Sept 18: With gun-toting commandos on constant vigil, a massive security blanket has been thrown around Indian tennis talent Sania Mirza, now in the city to play the US dollars 1.70 lakh WTA Sunfeast Open beginning tomorrow.

The tight security cover is in view of objections raised by some muslim clerics for her dress while on court.

From plainclothes detective department personnel to IPS officers, a posse of cops have been deployed at the hotel as also the tournament venue, to ensure foolproof security for the 18-year-old.

“We are not taking any chances. The commandos will be there with her whenever she ventures out of her hotel room,” said a senior police officer.

The Netaji indoor stadium has been turned into a fortress with strong police presence and installation of door-frame metal detectors at all the gates.

With some muslim clerics raising objection to Sania’s dress on the court, the world No 34 player did a large part of her practice routine yesterday away from the lensmen’s eyes.

Photojournalists and electronic media personnel who had gathered in strength to capture her training on camera were asked by securitymen to leave the scene, ten minutes after Sania had hit the court.

There was a strong security presence at her press conference. Even mediapersons were asked to stay put at the press conference room for a short while after Sania had left.

Sania avoided answering any question on the matter of security. “Please stick to questions on tennis,” she firmly told a questioner.