The government took strong note of the spate of corruption allegations levelled at the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee and decided to clip OC chairman Suresh Kalmadi’s wings by appointing 11 senior officials to oversee preparations for the Games.
On the day, visiting Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) president Mike Fennell also demanded that the corruption charges against the OC be thoroughly probed. Sports minister M.S. Gill concurred with Mr Fennell and assured that the guilty, if any, would not be spared. “The government and the nation is worried over alleged reports of corruption in the Games project. We will investigate the matter and take it to its logical conclusion,” said Mr Gill, replying to questions in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had already stepped in to clear up the mess in the wake of controversies as the October 3 to 14 Games approach. On Thursday, he approved the appointment of senior bureaucrats to resolve co-ordination problems and ensure smooth functioning with just 45 days remaining for the Games.
The officers have been empowered to take on-the-spot decisions to tie up any loose ends. “These officers would be deputed on part-time basis to oversee preparations at the major Commonwealth Games venues, to solve coordination problems and bring to the notice of the secretary, department of sports, and Cabinet Secretary for any intervention that may be required,” the sports ministry statement said Thursday.
However, Mr Kalmadi put up a brave face for the media, claiming the suggestion to appoint these government officials was made by the OC. The OC chairman might have retained his position for the time being but will now be answerable to government officials for every action.