The decision to open the monument on the day of Mr Obama’s visit is contrary to earlier reports of the Taj being closed to the common public due to security reasons. The Agra administration was confused as to whose order should be issued to close the Taj because never in its history has the Taj Mahal been closed for an entire day for any VVIP visit. To sort out the administrative confusion the officials decided in their review meeting on Wednesday that the Taj will be kept open till about nine in the morning.

After that, its gates will remain closed for the public till the time Mr. Obama leaves Agra.