Ready or not, let's go play

Sunday Times Editorial : Rarely has the prognosis in the build-up to a sporting event been as bleak as it was with the Commonwealth Games, which starts in Delhi today.

It became increasingly evident as Delhi's state of readiness came into sharper focus, that there were issues that the organisers could have tackled with greater alacrity.

The event teetered on the brink of collapse last week as several leading nations threatened to boycott the games, as concerns around security, corruption, infrastructure, the outbreak of mosquito-borne dengue fever and questionable living conditions for the athletes came to the fore.

While the organisers have much to answer for in the face of mounting criticism from participating teams, in particular Britain, Australia, Canada and New Zealand, developing countries have been less vocal.

They recognise the difficulties in acquiring hosting rights of major events (this is only the second time the games are held in Asia) and will be less inclined to rubbish the efforts of fellow aspirants.

Unfortunately for India, much of what has been reported will not just be a slight on the organisers, but on the way the country is perceived. This is unfair. India is technologically and economically a sophisticated powerhouse, more than capable of dining at the top table in both spheres.

Thankfully, more than 70 countries and territories from Anguilla to Zambia have embraced the motto of these games: "Come out and play."

We can only hope that, as they go in pursuit of sporting excellence, they will be allowed to do so in a safe and clean environment.

Let the games begin.