It has unnerved visiting journos a bit, Sarajevo and such places being dragged into the conversation, but it is the same in all major sporting events all around the world today, recounts former Olympian and Arjuna Award winning archer Limba Ram.

Not only Limba, most players around are only happy to see so much security. “We did hear about the threats and boycott call given by the ULFA, but never for once did we think of skipping the event or being scared of coming here,” said Soumesh Gupta, captain of the Uttar Pradesh fencing squad.

“All these securitymen are here for our safety so why should we be worried or frightened? It feels good to know that you are secure,” said Aruna Masand the Goan boxer even as she prepares for her 60kg bout that is coming up shortly.