PANAJI
Sports Minister Govind Gaude defended the decision to lease out stadiums for weddings and events stating that sports infrastructure cannot be kept idle "because there is a liability involved”.
The sports minister was replying to a query over the department’s decision to let out the Manohar Parrikar Indoor Stadium at Navelim for a wedding scheduled for August 24.
"See, the Navelim Sports Complex hasn’t been given on lease for regular events or functions. It’s just for one day. If, in the future, we find that such events are affecting the sports activities, we will take necessary action," he said.
While speaking to The Goan on Wednesday, sports lovers using the Navelim facilities had slammed authorities over leasing out the sports premises for events and argued that the stadium should be reserved exclusively for sports while pointing out that the wedding will mean that sports activities will be halted for three days for sports activities.
It may be recalled that a similar controversy had erupted last year after sports lovers protested leasing out the same indoor stadium for a furniture exhibition.
When asked about other sports facilities in the state, such as the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium, which have been used for events like shopping festivals and hospitality gatherings, Minister Gaude defended the practice. "We cannot keep the stadium or space idle. There is a big liability involved. If you don’t use something, it will get damaged over time. We always give first preference to sports events and activities, but if there are no proposals, we can’t just let the space sit empty," he explained.
The Minister also addressed concerns about potential damage to the facilities during non-sporting events. "We make sure that organizers install double-layered mats and that there is proper supervision. Engineers and supervisors are on-site to ensure that the field of play is not used for anything other than sports," he assured.
In an apparent move to assuage hurt sentiments, Gaude said, "I understand the frustrations, but I want to assure all sports lovers and athletes that our infrastructure is primarily for their benefit. We need to bring out more sporting talent from the state by utilizing these facilities properly. However, those who are just looking for a space to play after work or for leisure should understand that these places are meant for serious athletes who will bring medals and prestige to the state."
