Amid controversies over team selections in Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha called for keeping sports away from politics and avoiding suspicion in every selection process. He made these remarks at a national sports conference in Jammu. The statements address allegations of regional bias in events like the Santosh Trophy and school cricket games.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha of Jammu and Kashmir emphasized the need to separate sports from political interference during his address at the two-day National Level Sports Conference – SRIJAN, held at a convention centre in Jammu on Saturday. He described it as unfortunate that politics often overshadows sports, leading to talented individuals being overlooked. "Achhi pratibha ke bachhe, muje lagta hai ki jin ke pas bastabh mein pratibha hai, kinhi karno se chuk jatey hein," Sinha remarked, highlighting how those with real talent sometimes get left behind.
Sinha urged a shift away from suspecting every selection process, stating, "If we want to see India as a powerful player in the sports then we have to free ourselves from a predetermined mindset of having suspicion at every selection." He also advocated for better support for paraplegic athletes, citing the example of a national medal-winning swimmer and taekwondo champion who lacked hands and faced difficulties obtaining a driver's license due to administrative hurdles.
The comments come amid recent controversies. Last month, the selection for the Jammu and Kashmir team's 20-member squad for the Santosh Trophy national football tournament drew criticism, with 19 players from Kashmir, prompting Sports Minister Satish Sharma to order an inquiry. Similarly, the Under-14 boys' cricket team for the 69th National School Games faced allegations of favoring Kashmir over Jammu, leading to another probe by the UT administration. The J&K Sports Council has denied claims of bias. Notably, the football team started strongly, defeating Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh 3-0 each, before a 0-1 loss to Punjab ended their run.
Sinha praised the youth of Jammu and Kashmir for their determination and potential, calling for an encouraging environment to nurture sports talent. The conference brought together sports councils, administrators, experts, industry leaders, and local athletes.
