Cong demands probe, OC too seeks clarification

The Congress on Monday demanded an investigation into the allegations of corruption in Commonwealth Games projects saying the party would like to know “the truth”.

“We certainly would like to understand the truth of these allegations. The country as a whole and my party would like to know the truth. It is very important that the Commonwealth Games are successfully carried out because they will showcase India’s strength. But complete truth of the matter (allegations) should be brought o public,” AICC spokesperson Jayanthi Natarajan said at the AICC briefing.

Asked how the party proposed to uncover the truth, she said, “through investigations”.

Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi is also under the fire from his colleagues in the Games panel. OC vice-chairman Randhir Singh and executive board member Vijay Kumar Malhotra have both shot off letters to Kalmadi demanding an early meeting of the executive board. The two have asked Kalmadi to clarify all the allegations.

“There are so many news reports going round about the Organising Committee bungling in various contracts. As board members, it is very important for us to get an explanation. An incisive inquiry should be conducted and the culprit should be punished in case any bungling is found,” Malhotra told Newsline.