Wary of CWG-like fiasco,Delhi wants out of Asian athletics event

However,with less than two months to go for the continental event,government sources said Khanna has advised the Delhi chief minister’s office to “review the decision” because the event coincides with the monsoon,which could lead to “civic issues”,and in-turn “result in a poor picture of the country and its infrastructure being projected”,similar to what happened during the Commonwealth Games.

Security is also a concern,especially with athletes from Pakistan also in the fray,as Delhi Police will be gearing for Independence Day.

With the Delhi Assembly elections due to be held later this year,there is a fear that any negative publicity could backfire on the government and also have an impact on next year’s general elections,government sources added.

It is learnt that Chief Minister Sheila Dixit had given her approval to host the championships but Khanna’s letter could now see Delhi being red-flagged.

The current limbo has sent AFI officials into a tizzy and they are now trying to move the event to Pune or Bangalore.