The Singhbhum Sports Association ground in West Singhbhum (Chaibasa) has reopened, ending a period of uncertainty. The administration lifted the seal on the ground on Wednesday, much to the delight of the athletes who arrived for practice.
On Tuesday, acting on the instructions of Deputy Commissioner Chandan Kumar, the ground was sealed, and all its recognitions were terminated with immediate effect under the National Sports Development Code of India 2011. The action was carried out in the presence of Sub-Divisional Officer Sandeep Anurag Toppo, Sub-Divisional Police Officer Bahaman Tuti, Circle Officer Upendra Kumar, and Sports Officer Harsh Kumar.
On Wednesday, players were surprised to find the gate locked and sealed when they arrived for their usual practice. They expressed their frustration, noting that there was no alternative ground for them to train in the entire city. They believed that the administration should have sealed the association’s office instead of the entire ground. Many athletes also voiced concerns about their preparations for the upcoming Home Guard recruitment, which they were conducting on the same ground.
Upon learning of the situation, Singhbhum Sports Association General Secretary and former MLA Mithilesh Kumar Thakur was informed. He took the matter seriously and brought it to the attention of the relevant officials. Understanding the sentiments of the players, he immediately spoke with the Deputy Commissioner and requested the ground to be reopened.
Following the instructions, the Deputy Commissioner directed the Sub-Divisional Officer to unlock the ground, and it was soon opened for the players. The Sub-Divisional Officer announced that a meeting would be held on June 14 to discuss all issues related to the ground.