A day after report, players get R400 daily allowance

Uthra G Chaturvedi

Taking serious note of the poor facilities being provided to the players at the senior men’s national championships, the sports ministry has sought a detailed explanation from Hockey India and the MP sports departments, the organizers of the tournament. The Indian Express had reported on Friday about the badly ventilated, cramped and poor living conditions of the teams here.

“We have sought a detailed report from both the MP government and Hockey India regarding inadequate arrangements and lack of facilities for hockey players in Bhopal, as highlighted by a news report,” Sports minister Ajay Maken said. The official also added that details have been sought into specific complaints from several teams on the lack of coordination and absence of transport.

On ground, though, the officials have already started working on the shortcomings. The coolers provided to the players at the dormitories were being repaired through Friday while the organizing committee is trying to find alternative accommodations.

“Initially, half the teams were supposed to stay at the SAI centre. The problem arose because SAI backed out at the last minute because of a certificate course they are conducting,” the official said. “Bhopal is not a big city but we are trying to find decent hotels. The coaches and managers have already been shifted and we are looking to make arrangements for as many players as possible also,” he added.

At the same time, the official said that the MP government had decided to provide Rs 400 per player per day for the tournament. “It may not be a lot but we are trying our bit,” he said. Besides Uttar Pradesh, players from Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Punjab had also expressed displeasure with their accommodation. “Well, at least they are doing something now. Today they repaired the coolers and filled them with water. Hopefully things will be better now,” a senior player said.

Hockey India, however, has passed all responsibility to the organizers. “We are not responsible for providing accommodation to the participating players. It is the duty of the Madhya Pradesh Sports Department which is hosting the tournament. HI is providing only logistical support and coordinating,” he said.