Doha: It boasts spanking new arenas and state-of-the-art equipment but the Doha Asian Games are missing a vital ingredient, Indian sports officials say – a friendly touch.
Gas-rich Gulf state Qatar has dug into its deep resources for the December 1-15 sporting spectacle, but it is being spoiled by rude officials posted at venues, shooting coach Sunny Thomas told Reuters.
"The Games are very good, but they (officials) don't know how to behave," he said on Saturday. "In a way it is inexperience, but they should be hospitable."
Indian shooters were upset after Olympic double trap silver medallist Rajyavardhan Rathore was gruffly asked to move aside by security officials at the Games village two days ago.
Thomas said the security official had wagged his finger at Rathore, rejecting the shooter's offer to himself open his weapon case for checking.
"We had a long argument with them. The issue was settled only after the official in charge assured us there would not be a repeat of such incidents. These things can easily flare up."
"We can't object about security, it is their right, but the behaviour and attitude needs to change."
"There are many foreigners doing the job who think whatever they say is absolutely right," he said. "They seem to be following instructions blindly."
"We have attended many big games and we know how things should be handled," he said, adding that officials at the shooting complex could also do with a lesson in courtesy.
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