By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: In the wake of opposition from various sections over the two-year extension of service of Chief Engineer of the State Sports Council, W Kharmalki, the State Government has reduced the extension by one year.
“I am surprised at the huge uproar over the decision to extend the service of Kharmalki. We had taken this decision in the best interest of development of sports infrastructure in the State,” Deputy Chief Minister Bindo M Lanong said here on Wednesday, while making the announcement.
Lanong also explained that the decision to extend Kharmalki’s service was made since various major projects like installation of floodlights and laying of the athletic track at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium were pending and needed the Chief Engineer’s supervision.
“Another major pending project is the construction of a swimming pool within the Jawaharlal Nehru Sports Complex,” Lanong said.
The Deputy Chief Minister also pointed out that there are strong possibilities that the progress of the projects might be hampered if a new person takes over the supervision work since it would take time for the new official to familiarize himself with the functioning of the Sports Council.
“Once should realize that Kharmalki has been serving in the Council for the past many years. The Council would largely benefit if he continues to serve for another year or two,” Lanong added.