However, it later emerged that the invitations to the Prime Minister's residence were sent out 10 days ago.
"The dinner was never going to be at the Marriott," said Talat Hussain, a political analyst and director of current affairs at Aaj TV. "We were all issued invitations well in advance that it was to take place at the Prime Minister's house. And by claiming that they had managed to move the political leadership to another location, it asks the question, if there is a security threat, is it only for VIPs? Are the rest of us children of a lesser god?"
Mr Malik could not be reached for further clarification last night.