Haryana minister issues show-cause notice to 15 officials over lack of equipment, food supplies at Tau Devi Lal Stadium

Indian Express

3 days ago

Haryana's Minister of State for Sports Gaurav Gautam on Thursday paid a surprise visit to the Khelo India state-level centre at Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Panchkula.
The Minister arrived at the stadium at around 8 am unannounced and started interacting with the athletes and other people present there. He inspected the hostel accommodations, visited the mess to check food arrangements, and reviewed the gym facilities.
Expressing his displeasure over the lack of proper accommodation, prescribed food supplies, and sports equipment for players, the minister issued show-cause notices to all the coaches, staff, and the District Sports Officer of Panchkula, from the spot.
During the visit, Gautam met athletes practising boxing, badminton, and athletics and listened to their concerns. The players informed the minister that although the government's sports policy is excellent, the officials are failing to implement it properly, resulting in hardships for the athletes.
The Minister called the officials on the spot and warned them to improve the arrangements within 15 days, failing which strict action would be taken.
'Haryana's sports policy is among the best in the country. Athletes from the state are winning medals at the Olympics, World Championships, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games, bringing pride to the nation and state. To ensure even better performances, the government is committed to providing maximum sports facilities,' he said.
Gautam added that athletes must receive nutritious food and proper sports resources for improved performance. 'I have warned the coaches to improve their working methods and ensure timely training for the players. Coaches who perform well will be encouraged, while negligent ones will face action', he further said.