From correspondents in Delhi, India, 08:31 AM IST

It was a gathering of committed men and women who want to build a new India. But visitors to the Indian Social Forum meeting that ended Monday complained of poor hygiene at the venue.

With thousands consuming food at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium ground, parts of the vast ground stank because of the huge open piles of used plastic plates and wasted food.

Many people were seen walking with their noses covered with handkerchiefs.

Mukul Sharma, president of Amnesty International's India chapter and one of the main organisers, admitted the shortcomings at the event that drew over 50,000 people. 'There are faults with the waste management and sound (system),' he said. 'I admit that.'

The organisers said they had drawn their lessons and would do a better job when the World Social Forum is hosted the next year.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)