Delhi monuments have been placed on alert ahead of possible visits by foreign leaders attending the BRICS summit, with the Archaeological Survey of India deploying nodal officers at the Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb and the Red Fort. The monuments remain open to regular visitors, but tourist movement could be temporarily restricted if a high-profile delegation arrives.
The arrangements have been made in view of possible visits by foreign guests during the BRICS summit being held in Delhi on September 12 and 13, according to a report by Jagran – New Delhi. The official programme currently available does not list visits to any of the three World Heritage monuments.
The Archaeological Survey of India is reviewing arrangements at the sites and has been instructed to remain prepared for any potential visit. Officials have also been directed to maintain coordination with security agencies and other departments involved in the summit-related arrangements.
The report said nodal officers have been stationed at the Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb and the Red Fort. These officers are expected to oversee coordination and site-level preparedness if a visit is confirmed. The ASI has reportedly been informed that it could receive notice of such a visit shortly before the movement takes place.
For visitors, the immediate position remains unchanged. Entry to the three monuments has not been suspended, and tourists can visit them under normal arrangements. However, if a foreign leader or another prominent guest arrives at one of the sites, security protocols could temporarily stop or regulate the movement of ordinary visitors for a period of time.
The possible visits come as senior international leaders arrive in Delhi for the summit. Russian President Vladimir Putin has reached the capital, while Chinese President Xi Jinping was scheduled to arrive. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and representatives of other countries are also attending the meeting, according to the report.
The summit programme includes meetings among leaders, an India innovation exhibition, a tree-planting event and a formal dinner. It does not, however, officially confirm visits to the Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb or the Red Fort. The ASI’s preparations are therefore precautionary and do not establish that any particular leader will visit the monuments.
The three sites are among Delhi’s most prominent heritage destinations and normally receive visitors under established access and security arrangements. Any temporary restriction during a VIP movement would be implemented for security reasons, while the regular entry status of the monuments remains open unless authorities issue a specific notice.
The ASI and security agencies are expected to continue monitoring the summit schedule and site requirements. Any decision to restrict visitor movement will depend on whether a monument visit is formally communicated and the security arrangements required at that time.
