New Delhi:
The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has strongly refuted the suggestion made in the interim report of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) that the company Fast Track Sales Ltd was chosen as a consultant for the broadcasting rights of the Commonwealth Games based solely on the suggestions of three people - the CGF President, the CEO Mike Hooper and the Chairman of the Organising Committee Mr Suresh Kalmadi.
According to Mr Hooper, it was for the Suresh Kalmadi headed Organising committee to ensure that the selection of consultants was done in accordance with Indian law.
"I strongly refute any wrongdoing. It is method for the Organising Committee (OC) to follow proper process in accordance with Indian law. The OC has to decide who it will appoint in outsourced roles," Hooper said while addressing a press conference in New Delhi.
At the same time, he did endorse the selection of Fast Track on the basis of its past record.
"The CGF makes appropriate recommendations based on recommendations. The federation stands by recommendation of Fast track, which has an enviable record of success. It has endorsements from others in past, like the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne. They met and exceeded their (Aussie) expectations," he said.
"It is my understanding that the Organising Committee (OC) did undertake process and validate credentials of persons concerned. I assume they followed whatever process required," Hooper added.
When asked about whether the Commonwealth Games venues are ready, Hooper said, "Still a lot of work remains to be done in venues. A lot to be done with regard to the finishing works. Everyone needs to focus on their work and get it done. Athletes will be judge of the Games."