OC not cooperating: Armed forces

The two military bands were pulled out at the last moment after it was discovered that the organising committee had not sought permissions from the home ministry and the Border Security Force (that controls the border post). This despite the fact that the two bands were specially brought over from Wellington and Shillong.

While the defence ministry worked overtime to resolve the issue,it was brought to notice that a military band playing at the border could raise protocol issues.

Defence secretary Pradeep Kumar has already directed that the ministry’s displeasure be known to the organising committee and responsibility be fixed to ensure that resources taken from the armed forces be used optimally by the games organisers.

The defence ministry also considered reviewing its support for the games. After the armed forces were roped in at the last moment following a significant shortfall in manpower and resources.

In the letter sent to the sports ministry,the Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) of the defence ministry,which has been entrusted with coordination for the games,has brought to notice that assistance sought in several quarters has still not been finalised despite the short time left for the games.

While the organising committee has sought customisation of the army parade ground for rehearsals for opening and closing ceremonies,work has still not commenced and is likely to be delayed further with the arrival of monsoons. The Republic Day Camp,which has been sought to accommodate artists and performers,has still not been taken over by the OC even though several repairs need to be carried out at the earliest.