The stalwarts of Indian Kabaddi in shock with players’ food served in toilet during state-level U-17 tournament Saharanpur

“Shameful” and “unfortunate” were the stern reactions from two stalwarts of the Indian Kabaddi to the horrific incident in which kabaddi players have been served food inside the toilet of a sports complex during a three-day state-level Under-17 girls’ Kabaddi tournament in Saharanpur district. The video of the incident went viral on Tuesday, sparking massive outrage amongst the sports fraternity in the country, leading to the suspension of a senior officer allegedly involved to the incident.

While speaking exclusively to The Quotes, Anup Kumar, former skipper of Indian national Kabaddi team and recipient of Arjuna award, expressed his shock over the incident and called out the organisers of the tournament. “This is unacceptable. I am shocked to see such behaviour with our junior players. When the majority of the section in the society is trying to uplift the stature of the sports at all levels, such incidents push us back,” said the World Cup-winning captain. Meanwhile, Ajay Thakur, Ex-captain of the national team and Padma Shri awardee, lauded the immediate suspension of alleged officer.

“Such prompt response from the higher authority will convey a good message in the society. I would request a thorough investigation in the matter as we might find involvement of more people with the incident,” Thakur said in a telephonic conversation.

However, Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur had ordered strict action against the accused contractor and officers. “I have also instructed that the contractor must be blacklisted for the future,” he was quoted in several media reports. While talking to The Quotes, Ajay Thakur hailed the response from the sports minister and stated that such a proactive response would improve the environment for sports aspirants in the country. Meanwhile, Anup Kumar too urged for more awareness and education at the district level, which would eventually affect the behaviour towards athletes.

“My message to the kabaddi players participating in the Under-17 girls’ Kabaddi tournament is straightforward. Don’t be disheartened by the incident. These incidents will only strengthen you, and you all must focus on your game only. I would like to promise them that we all are working really hard and honestly to improve the environment for all of you. Don’t let your approach towards sports get affected by such an incident,” concluded Anup Kumar.

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