MARGAO: Sportspersons and fitness enthusiasts have urged the government to halt the practice of leasing the Manohar Parrikar Indoor Stadium at Navelim for non-sporting events such
as weddings and exhibitions. This plea follows a planned wedding at the stadium this weekend, sparking widespread anger. The local sports community argues that hosting non-sporting events at the stadium deprives athletes of a crucial practice and workout space, setting a dangerous precedent.
The controversy centres on the decision by the Sports Department to rent out the stadium for a wedding on August 24. Critics argue that the Sports Department should focus on promoting sports rather than compromising the integrity of sports facilities.
Cancio Mascarenhas, a veteran sports figure, emphasised the importance of the stadium for the local sports community. “This facility is regularly used by athletes, including national and international players, for sports like badminton and basketball, said Mascarenhas, stressing that the government must remember that this is an indoor stadium, not a wedding venue.
“Last year, the stadium was leased out for a furniture exhibition, which was met with similar opposition. The government should ensure that such events are not held at the stadium in the future,” he added. Another sports enthusiast voiced concern over the potential deterioration of the stadium’s condition, drawing parallels with the neglect seen at the old Fatorda stadium.
Siddesh Bhagat, National Vice President of the AAP Youth Wing, and Prabhav Naik, a local youth leader, have also voiced their concerns. Bhagat remarked that while versatile spaces are necessary, the primary focus of the stadium should remain on sports. He pointed out that Salcete lacks a full-fledged indoor stadium and stressed the importance of investing in sports infrastructure to keep the youth engaged in positive activities. He also called for improvements to the stadium, such as better air conditioning. Naik criticized the decision to close the stadium for a wedding, arguing that it is unfair to disrupt the activities of sportspersons who rely on the facility for practice.
