The Commonwealth Games Federation has avoided a potential diplomatic feud by deciding that India's president Pratibha Patil of India will jointly open the Delhi Games with Prince Charles.
In a statement, the federation said that on Sunday Charles "will read The Queen's message, which ends with the opening of the Games".
"The president of India will then deliver her address and signal the commencement of the Games," the federation said.
Meanwhile, officials in Delhi deny suggestions that Games billboards are being used to disguise the city's slums.
The ABC reports colourful banners promoting the Games are in place around the city, often blocking slums from view.
Chief minister Sheila Dikshit says the boards are to give Delhi a "festive look".
Human rights advocates have criticised the amount of money spent on the Games while so many residents live in poverty.
The Games will run from 3 - 14 October.
