Mediator Gill meets Kalmadi

Sports Minister MS Gill, who is hoping to thrash out contentious issues between the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) and the Organising Committee (OC) in London later this month, is also planning to involve CGF CEO Mike Hooper in the talks.
Gill had said earlier that he would be meeting OC Chairman Suresh Kalmadi and CGF chief Mike Fennell in London on October 28 during the Queen’s Baton Relay.

“I am confident that all issues will be resolved and everyone will work in unison to ensure a very good Commonwealth Games. I met Mr Kalmadi today and will also be talking to Mr Fennell and Mr Hooper in London,” said Gill, who is hoping to mediate in a fracas that threatens to jeopardise next year’s event.

Indian officials do not seem to agree with certain suggestions from the CGF, including the number of foreign officials needed in the run up to the Commonwealth Games, and have also asked for the repatriation of Hooper. The CGF also wants a Technical Review Panel to monitor the progress, which has been rejected by Kalmadi, who feels there are already enough checks in place.

Kalmadi is also looking forward to his visit to London and is hoping that he can get rid of Hooper, who he feels has been a hindrance rather than one giving valuable inputs.
“There are certain areas where we need the help of experts from abroad. But our officials are competent enough to handle most of the other stuff,” has been Kalmadi’s contention.