Despite the Sports Ministry's directive to the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee (OC) on Tuesday, to lend an interest-free loan to the Indian Weightlifting Federation, its chairman Suresh Kalmadi refused to provide any such 'direct' assistance.
A hefty fine of $5,00,000 (R 2.35 cr.) was imposed on the IWF after six of its lifters flunked dope tests last year. Although the IWF has already paid a fraction of the fine from its own resources, Kalmadi said the IOA would only assist in getting funds for IWF from a third party.
"The IOA is not permitted to provide assistance in matters relating to dope charges. We are in talks with the International Olympic Committee and the International Weightlifting Federation to get the fine reduced," he said.
The matter is being looked at with concern, as unless the fine is paid, Indian lifters will not be allowed to participate in the Games.
In its directive to the OC, the ministry clarified that its top priority was to safeguard the interest of the lifters and to ensure they participate in the CWG.