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| Edited By: Joe Williams |Source: DNA |Updated: Sep 28, 2017, 10:55 PM IST
Commonwealth Games Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi tells DNA that all the infrastructure will be in place before the opening day of the showpiece event.
On Indian athletes failing dope tests
It is a serious issue and is being strictly dealt with. That is the reason some of our athletes are facing the music. Now that we have National Anti-Doping Agency, things are easy for us to control and all those found guilty will be punished severely.
On the CWG infrastructure
The infrastructure will be ready in time for the Games and I am sure they will be a great success. There are some small hitches but they will be cleared in the next few days. We have another 22 days and things will be in place.
On the 1500 dengue cases that have been registered in the capital
Blame it on the rain. The concerned people have assured us that they will take care of dengue.
On the star athletes missing the Games
There are a few who’re missing out, including Usain Bolt. But all the other big names will be here.
On BCCI not supporting the Games
They are facing some tax problems. At least that’s what they have told us. I have been given to understand that the money they had promised was liable for tax.
On the sponsorships
Our target is to get sponsorships up to Rs1,100 crore. So far we have generated Rs700 crore and I am confident of meeting the target.
On allegations against OC
I am responsible only for the Rs1, 600 crore, which is given to me for organising the event. I am not responsible for anything else. If there is any misuse of the money given to me for organising, I am ready to face any inquiry. Even I want to make things clear and I assure you, I will do anything to clear my name.
On withdrawal of Sports Marketing and Management (SMAM)
They did not meet the target we set. We have terminated their contract and have not paid them any money.
On our athletes not getting enough practice at the venues
I agree that we have not been able to give the advantage to our own athletes, but we have found a substitute in Balewadi Sports Complex in Pune and they are practising there.
On the participating countries
Seventy-one countries will be in New Delhi next month and it will be one of the biggest Commonwealth Games ever.
