UKHRUL: Members of the State-level team from Rajasthan alleged extortion and mismanagement during their travel to Manipur for the 69th National Games in Imphal.
The incident has sparked outrage across platforms after videos circulating online alleged that the group was held hostage at gunpoint and robbed on January 13. The Rajasthan team consisted of 52 boys and girls participating in the Wushu martial art event. They were travelling in a bus from Dimapur to Imphal.
The parents of the school players writing to the Education Minister, Madan Dilawar have demanded stricter action and better administrative management adding that their children faced severe discomfort due to inadequate travel arrangements, The Hindu reported.
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However, the Director of Youth Affairs and Sports, Manipur has denied receiving any complaint. The director suggested that if such a matter was brought to their notice, they would have taken action and lodged an FIR against extortion. Despite the absence of a formal complaint, an inquiry has been issued.
“Without complaining about the matter, they left Imphal today early morning and later circulated video clips on social media,” the Director said.
Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot took to X demanding a thorough investigation also stating arrangements for teams travelling from Rajasthan should be strengthened in the future.
Gehlot also mentioned that Manipur has been suffering with violence and unrest for the past two years. Since it is under the President’s rule, the entire responsibility lies with the Central government.
Organised by the School Games Federation of India, Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla had inaugurated the event at Khuman Lampak Main Stadium in Imphal last week. The Rajasthan team put up an impressive performance, with the girls’ team winning first place and the boys securing the second spot.