Kalmadi, who had asked the CGF to transfer Hooper to London from Delhi as he has been an ‘impediment’ to the working of the Games Organising Committee, refused to say whether he stands by his earlier demand.

Asked whether he would persist with his demand for Hooper’s transfer from Delhi when he meets Fennell in London during the launch of Queens Baton Relay, Kalmadi said, “Don’t ask me about it now. We want to sort out matters through talks. We don’t want any more confrontation. “Hopefully, we will sort out our concerns when I meet Fennell in London,” he said at a hurriedly-called press briefing before departing for London.

The CWG OC chairman also said Sports Minister MS Gill, who had wanted to broker peace between Kalmadi and the CGF top brass, was free to join his meeting with Fennell in London.

“He is welcome to join the meeting. He has said something (about brokering peace),” Kalmadi said.

Kalmadi also said top bureaucrat Jarnail Singh had taken charge as Chief Executive Officer of the CWG OC.

“Jarnail Singh has joined us at CWG OC. He has been a distinguished officer who has served as Chief Secretary of Manipur. He is not appointed by the government. We have recommended his name.: