205 out of the 245 athletes training at the National Sports Academy in Imphal, Manipur walked out of the institution on Friday in protest of the poor quality of equipment and living facilities provided to them.
The students allege that basic facilities provided at the hostel and at the Academy for sport training are sub-standard and are in deplorable condition. They have called for a crucial student-parents meeting, stating they won’t return until and unless the authorities act positively and mitigate their plight.
The athletes, who hail from different states of the North East insisted that at least safe potable water and enough water for the toilet should be provided.
The facilities provided here at the Academy both in the hostel and for training are sub-standard. Toilet facilities are pathetic, water for toilet and potable water are worst. If the authorities continue to neglect and not do something about these, I’m doubtful of my career in sportsLalrin Chhani, Mizoram
The athletes also alleged negligence on the behalf of the authorities. “I had scabies once. Instead of calling a doctor or taking me to a hospital, the authorities informed my parents and ask them to take me out for treatment,” said Ajmir Hussain, 19 year old National Taekwondo Gold medallist from Tripura.
Most athletes in Academy that was constructed in the year 2004, under Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, resonate the same feelings. The academy housed a total of 245 students, 160 boys and 85 girls, who are picked out from across the region. They are provided free sports training as well as education at the Academy.
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