Chinese Delegation's Bag Of 'Unusual Dimensions' Raises Security Concerns At Delhi's Taj Hotel During G20 Summit

A tense situation unfolded at a five-star hotel in Delhi during the G20 Summit last week as security personnel confronted members of the Chinese delegation carrying a bag with "unusual dimensions". The Taj Palace's vigilant security team observed a member of the Chinese delegations and adhered to diplomatic protocols and allowed the bags to enter the hotel despite their suspicions. 

The situation raised an alarm when a hotel employee, while attending to one of the delegation's rooms spotted what they described as "suspicious equipment" concealed within two bags. 

The hotels' security department was promptly informed about the situation and the officials of the Taj Palace following standard security procedures requested the Chinese delegation members to submit their bags for a routine scan. 

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However, sources familiar with the matter said that the foreign delegates vehemently resisted the request, leading to a prolonged standoff, reported ne3ws agency IANS. 

Following this the hotel's security team maintained a vigilant watch outside the delegation's room. A solution was arrived at when the members agreed to send their bags in question to the Chinese embassy. 

The impasse lasted for about 12 hours, a source said. The exact nature of the "suspicious equipment" remains undisclosed, but the incident highlights the balance of security concerns and diplomatic protocols that rise during high-level international events such as the G20 Summit. 

The Taj Palace Delhi. (Photo credit: Taj Palace)

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The incident raised questions about security measures in place for such gatherings and the necessity for maintaining vigilance even when diplomatic relations are at the forefront. 

The 2023 G20 Summit witnessed the presence of leaders from around the world and was held on September 9 and 10 in the national capital.