13 March,2009 06:41 AM IST | | Imran Gowhar and Lavanya Srinivasan
Bidari says they can provide security for the IPL matches only after the elections
Organisers of the Indian Premier League shouldn't depend on the city police for security during matches as they have made it clear that elections are the priority.
Police commissioner S M Bidari said the police would provide security for the IPL after the Lok Sabha polls and this has been conveyed to the authority concerned Home minister V S Acharya echoed Bidari's views saying the government would rather have the matches played between May 4 and 12.
Asked if there was a proposal to opt for private security for the IPL matches, Bidari said it was up to the organisers to decide that.
Karnataka State Cricket Association sources said they had sent a letter to police headquarters seeking their opinion on security but they had not received any reply.
Has cricket lost it?
Vishal Bharadwaj
"I don't think cricket has lost its sheen, all this has further publicised the IPL. I can understand that cricket during elections can be a bit of a problem for the police but this time, we will have special security."
Robin Uthappa
"Though there are many problems this time, all the hungama is adding steam to the IPL. The fans just can't wait for the matches to start. Also, this time we have a very good team so there are chances of us winning. We will get private security since police will be tied up with elections."
Dodda Ganesh
"Cricket will always be popular. Nothing can tarnish the image of cricket. All this hassle with security and telecast problems will fall in place. Whether we get police's help or not, security will be at its best."
