FICCI backs troubled Commonwealth Games

India's apex business body FICCI today threw its weight behind the crisis-hit Commonwealth Games and its organisers, asking the critics to stop their tirade against the mega event.

FICCI president Rajan Bharti Mittal described the Games Village as outstanding and hoped the country will successfully host the best ever Games.

"Much has been said and written about the Games. It's time to raise the flag, time to raise the banner. I have been to Village personally and I have to say that it is outstanding," Mittal said while speaking on the opening day of the two-day Global Sports Summit, organised by FICCI.

"There is no reason to believe that India will not be able to deliver. We have confidence not only in OC but as an Indian citizen that foreign delagtes will see one of the best Games," Mittal said in presence of OC chairman Suresh Kalmadi.

Speaking on the corruptin charges that marred the build-up to the Games, Mittal said, "FICCI truly believes in accountability and is against corruption."

Mittal, who is also the vice chairman and MD of Bharti Enterprises, supported the beleagured Kalmadi saying, "Post the Games you will have many accolades that you have missed."

Atul Singh, chairman of the FICCI Sports Committee, said the country, like cricket, needs stars in others sports, too.

"We do not have champions across the board. There are individuals who have excelled. Other than cricket we do not have momentum in other sport," he said.

The two-day event will deliberate on issues such as 'Changing Face of Indian Sports', 'Business Opportunity in Sports – Vision 2020', 'Money, Marketing & Modern Sports', 'Sports Infrastructure: Creation & Management' and 'Role of Media in Sports'.