India should not bid for Olympics, says Sports Minister

Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister M S Gill on Wednesday said that India should not be thinking of hosting Olympics Games in the near future.

Gill's remarks came in response to a statement made by actor-turned-politician of Samajwadi Party (SP) Jaya Bachchan, who reportedly said that the Commonwealth Games gives an opportunity to bid for the Olympics.

"I have heard it before and I heard my distinguished colleagues say that India should be thinking of the Olympics. But, I am not sure whether India should. Look at the poverty in this country, look at its size, look at your urban problem," Gill said while speaking in Rajya Sabha during a discussion on the Commonwealth Games.

He also said that the common people would not want to have Olympics although for certain class it's a good entertainment.

"There is a certain class among us who want these great events because it's a good entertainment and good fun for that time. But, I do not think that the common man wants an Olympic game. China spent 50 billion dollars to stage the event. If you are ready and if you think you can take care, think of it," Gill added.

Gill further added that the Government is ready to stage the Commonwealth Games next year, and they are monitoring the progress of construction of stadium and other infrastructure.

"I can assure you that the Government is totally focused and is doing everything they can, that is why this very strong group of ministers under Jaipal Reddy (Union Urban Development Minister) meet every week and I write to the Prime Minister regularly because that also is necessary, so that he is given a run over of the situation as it is developing. I am confident because I have to look to the future," Gill said.