SHILLONG, Feb 26: The state government’s reported move to convert the U Tirot Sing Syiem Indoor Stadium into U Tirot Sing Syiem Bhavan has ruffled the feathers of select groups, who are suggesting the government to reconsider its decision.
The Meghalaya State Badminton Association (MSBA), East Khasi Hills District Badminton Association and members of the indoor stadium have flagged their opposition to the move, while ruing that the government has already floated a tender for construction and conversion of the indoor stadium.
The MSBA reminded that the stadium, which is located at Lower Lachumiere, has a historical significance as it is the first indoor stadium in the Khasi-Jaintia Hills.
The MSBA also informed that it, in collaboration with Shillong Badminton Coaching Centre, has been coaching children from 10 years and above till date.
It contended that the indoor stadium has played an all-important role in shaping many players from Meghalaya who not only have represented the state at the national level but also have brought laurels.
“It is really ironical on the part of the government taking up the project ‘Construction of U Tirot Sing Syiem Bhavan’, which will accommodate only the Office of the Directorate of Sports, State Sports Council and other offices as per government allotment, without considering the importance of the UTSS Indoor Stadium and its longstanding contribution towards the development of game of badminton and table tennis in the state as well whole region,” the MSBA said.