Delhi underground: Caught in red tape

All the tall talk by municipal corporations about promoting tourism came to nothing when a film production house recently came looking for approval from one of the civic agencies to shoot at a particular location. The production company was made to visit a string of government offices over "various issues" — such as the fee and permission for the site. Even after doing the rounds, the company representatives had to assure several politicians that the production unit "won't damage the infrastructure during shooting". Caught in the red tape, the exasperated representatives wondered if it was wise to take the corporations' words for granted, especially the promise to offer ample opportunities to promote tourism and culture.

Security woes

Other than the "ordinary" Formula One fans, the Indian Grand Prix at Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida attracts the Bollywood glitterati and many "very important dignitaries" from every nook and cranny in the country. This means extra security arrangements for the VIPs. "Safety of the movie stars and high-ranking state ministers and bureaucrats is paramount. The problem is finding enough personnel to provide security to each one of these dignitaries," an officer said. Already hardpressed to ensure a safe event, police were said to be on their toes to ensure that no dignitary came in harm's way on race day.

All equal in law

She was all decked up with beautiful ornaments, expensive makeup and an attire made of gold thread. All set to for her wedding pandal. After she stepped out of the beauty parlour, she could not find her car. She was told that the car was towed away by traffic police. The worried bride called her father, a businessman, who was busy welcoming guests at the wedding. Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Satyendra Garg was one in the list. "The bride had to go where the car was taken and pay the challan amount. The joint commissioner expedited the procedure, but the challan wasn't waived," an officer said.

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