Srinagar 09 Sep(KNB): Allegations have been raised against a Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council official associated with the management of affairs at City Central Bakshi Stadium, with claims concerning venue fee collection, allotment of facilities and alleged conduct towards athletes and coaches.
According to sources familiar with the matter, complaints have previously been raised regarding the official’s functioning. The latest allegations have prompted calls for the J&K Sports Council to examine the matter and take appropriate action, if warranted.
Sources alleged that the official is involved at the ground level in matters relating to the fixing and collection of venue fees for sporting and other events held at Bakshi Stadium. One source claimed that, in certain instances, there were differences between the amounts allegedly collected from organisers and the amounts subsequently reflected or deposited with the J&K Sports Council.
The claim could not be independently verified.
A source further alleged that certain parties had allegedly received preferential treatment in the allotment of facilities. The source claimed that, on some occasions, facilities were allegedly provided without charges, while in other instances, fees were allegedly collected for fewer days than the period for which the venue had been allotted.
These allegations could not be independently verified.
Sources have also alleged that complaints have previously been raised regarding the official’s conduct towards athletes and coaches training at the stadium.
One source claimed that concerns over the official’s behaviour had been brought to the notice of the Sports Council in the past. The source further alleged that similar concerns had resurfaced following changes in the Council’s administrative leadership.
Questions have also been raised over the procedure followed for allotment of training slots and other facilities at Bakshi Stadium. Sources alleged that, in some instances, allotments were made at the stadium level despite directions issued by higher authorities.
“There is confusion over the allotment system. The official allegedly exercises considerable discretion in deciding allotments and, in some cases, issues communications or permissions at the local level,” another source claimed.
Sources further alleged that the official continues to exercise considerable control over day-to-day arrangements at the stadium and called for the Sports Council to review the existing system.
They also urged the Council to consider an administrative review of the official’s continued posting at the venue, saying that a transparent and clearly defined system for venue allotment and fee collection would help address the concerns raised.
The J&K Sports Council and the official concerned were approached for their response to the allegations. Their response, if received, will be incorporated into this report.(KNB)