Rushdie was slated to attend the fest that kicks off today.

The author's visit came under cloud after Muslim organisations objected to it, saying his views on Islam had hurt the community's sentiments.

While the Centre was silent on the controversy, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said Rushdie's visit has stoked security fears. He told Union Home Minister P Chidambaram that the writer's visit was being resented by locals.

The central government then put Rajasthan and Delhi on high alert for the days of the festival, asking the police forces to take all possible steps to deal with any untoward situation.

The Home Ministry advisory asked the two police forces to deploy adequate forces in all sensitive locations.