NEW DEHLI: The treasurer of the troubled Delhi Commonwealth Games has resigned, even as India’s sports minister promised the event would be a success despite delays and allegations of corruption.
Anil Khanna, treasurer of the organising committee, stepped down amid allegations that favouritism had played a part in awarding a contract related to the Games’ tennis venue to a company headed by his son. Khanna insisted that he was resigning with “a clear conscience.”
An Indian anti-corruption body last week reported it had found a host of problems with construction work for the Games, scheduled from October 3, including the use of poor-quality materials and dubious contracts.
The allegations have triggered calls for the embattled chairman of the organising committee, Suresh Kalmadi, to take moral responsibility and resign.
Meanwhile, Sports Minister MS Gill promised in parliament that all facilities for the Games would be ready by the end of August.
“Most of the venues have already hosted test events without glitches. I have had a look at the stadiums, they are ready. Just the finishing work remains to be done,” said Gill.
“The Games are at our doorstep and we have to ensure its success,” added the sports minister.
Gill also promised that all corruption allegations would be fully investigated.
“If officials are found to be corrupt, they will be removed. We will look into every single charge and the truth shall be brought before the nation.”
Published in The Express Tribune, August 6th, 2010.
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