New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday slammed the government over the Commonwealth games preparations.
Pointing out the recent collapse of a foot overbridge, the apex court said it collapsed like a "pack of cards". "Corruption is rampant. In most cases, payment was made before the work was complete," the apex court said.
The apex court also questioned the amount of money (Rs 70,000 crore) being spent on organising the Games.
Dikshit says Games Village ready; Oz issues fresh alert
Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, who visited the Commonwealth Games Village, today said the complex is "absolutely ready" but Australia issued fresh alert for its nationals to avoid the national capital. "The Village is absolutely ready. Cleanliness and other aspects are now upto the mark. For the first time I am feeling very satisfied," she said.
However, Australia advised its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution while travelling in India due to likely terror attacks and possible communal tension over a judgment on the Babri Masjid-Ramjanmabhoomi dispute due on Thursday afternoon.
The Australian High Commission in New Delhi cautioned against possible terror attacks, civil unrest or political tension "surrounding the verdict".
"We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in India at this time because of the high risk of terrorist activity by militant groups. Pay close attention to your personal security at all times...Terrorist attacks could occur at any time anywhere in India with little or no warning," it said.
With just five days to go for the 19th edition of the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, being held in the backdrop of complaints of ill-preparedness and allegations of corruption, Gill and Kalmadi also visited the Village to take stock of the situation.
"I have spent almost two hours in the village and spoken to teams from at least 13 countries. Honestly, all of them said that they are feeling very comfortable and are glad to be here," Gill told reporters.
"I am personally satisfied with the arrangements and situation at the Games Village and other Games venues," he said. "There is nothing to worry about," he added about the Australian advisory, pointing out that stringent security arrangements were in place.
Gill and Kalmadi had food at the dining hall in the sprawling - and controversial - Village built to house the athletes and officials for the Oct 3-14 sporting event.
Source: Agencies