Ticket fraud reported as Games miss the crowds

11 Oct, 2010

Commonwealth Games officials said on Sunday a volunteer had been reported for ticket fraud and that they were still fixing the ticket system, halfway through an event where availability of tickets has been a major problem.
Indian media have reported bundles of valid Games tickets found in trash bins and the sale of complimentary passes, while fans have been turned away from officially sold-out venues that have hosted events before half-empty stands.
Games organising committee head Suresh Kalmadi said a volunteer had been reported to police for trying to sell tickets fraudulently.
"There is no question of condoning such acts. We won't encourage such things," he told reporters, refuting reports that a Games official was involved in ticketing fraud. He said "10 percent" more tickets were being printed to be given away free.
The ticketing issue is just the latest in a string of problems to hit the $6 billion Games, which India had hoped would display its ability to run a world class event but instead has increasingly become an embarrassment to the nation.
Athletes, team coaches and spectators have complained about woeful attendances and erratic security measures at a Games where events, including some boasting Indian gold medal-winners, have played before scant crowds. On Saturday, the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) had asked the Delhi organisers to investigate the ticket system.

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