New Delhi:
The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has confirmed that there were major irregularities in the construction of the Commonwealth Games Village, where the athletes and delegates were housed during the event.
The DDA has submitted a report on the problems with the Village to Jaipal Reddy, who heads the Group of Ministers (GoM) that oversaw the Games.
The Village was built by EMAAR MGF Construction Private Limited.
On October 7, Reddy wrote to the DDA to say "It has been widely reported that EMAAR MGF Construction Private Limited, has not executed the project of the development of the Games Village diligently and efficiently. There are serious complaints against the project developer, including complaints of construction against the provisions of the sanctioned plan, as well as not adhering to the obligations as per the Project Development Agreement. There have also been reports of several delay as well as deficiency in the execution of the project, which have not only adversely affected the image of DDA but also the Common Wealth Games as a whole. DDA is requested to send a detailed report on the above mentioned subject within a week."
However, the DDA is one of nearly 20 agencies being investigated and audited for possible corruption. Several departments of the Delhi government are also being scrutinised through parallel inquiries ordered by the central government.
Today, BJP President Nitin Gadkari said that as Urban Development Minister, Reddy too should have to explain why the Games were marked by corruption, indefensible expenditure and inefficient organization.
In a statement on Monday, EMAAR clarified, they have complied with all laws and regulations. They say the Games Village is a world class structure developed in record time.