25,000 cops, 35 routes, 11 hotels: How Delhi is securing the BRICS Summit

The Delhi Police security unit, working with national and international agencies, announced a large‑scale security deployment for the three‑day 18th BRICS Summit that begins on September 11. The plan aims to protect heads of state from eleven member nations and ten partner countries as they convene at Bharat Mandapam and stay in designated hotels across the capital.

Approximately 25,000 personnel will be on duty, including more than 100 National Security Guard commandos, Delhi Police SWAT teams, and over 10,000 members of paramilitary forces such as the CRPF, ITBP, BSF and RAF. Around 30 Deputy Commissioners of Police have been assigned to the venue and hotels, with at least ten DCPs stationed at Bharat Mandapam. Eleven major hotels—including ITC Maurya, Taj Palace, The Leela Palace, Taj Mahal Hotel and The Oberoi—will each have a dedicated security team led by NSG officials. Anti‑drone systems, anti‑aircraft guns, snipers and anti‑sabotage units have been positioned across central Delhi, and 35 routes have been earmarked for possible traffic restrictions during dignitary movements.

The security framework mirrors the extensive measures taken for the 2023 G20 Summit, reflecting the government's priority on a peaceful and disruption‑free event. Section 163 prohibiting public gatherings has been enforced citywide, with additional restrictions on roads leading to Lutyens’ Delhi over the weekend. While courts and many offices will observe a holiday, key commercial areas such as Connaught Place and Chandni Chowk will remain open, with special police teams assigned to protect visiting dignitaries and their families. The comprehensive deployment underscores Delhi’s commitment to ensuring the safety of international leaders and the smooth conduct of the summit.