Tura, Jan 16: While the first day of the 5th edition of the Meghalaya Games started off in much fanfare, athletes from various districts complained over the food packets that were served to various athletes after junk food was delivered to all instead of a proper lunch.
Amidst a tight security, almost all shops near the venue of the Games inauguration were shut down leading to many ditching lunch completely and going hungry.
The organizers however clarified on the matter stating that as athletes needed to reach their venues early, a heavy breakfast was served and light snacks for the afternoon was provided.
“As per protocol, food packets and not lunch was served in the stadium. Further we provided an early packed dinner to athletes,” stated the organizers.
The contents of the food packets however received much criticism as it contained some cashew nuts, 2 little samosas, a potato patty, 1 small packet of chips, a Frooti and a packet of bhujiya.
“As parents we advise our children to not indulge in junk food but it seems the government wants to do just the opposite. As athletes and managers, we need to eat healthy and this is what we get. There was no lunch for our children despite the fact that they were involved in competitions. We got lunch at 7:30 PM in the evening. This is extremely disappointing,” said team manager for Truenorth, East Khasi Hills swimming team, Syrpailin Wanniang.
Her contingent consisted of over 70 players with many more being housed in the same place, Durama College. She added that not only was the food situation bad, her children (boys) were housed in nearby Bosco Mount where there were no provisions for food.
“Imagine they have to walk 2 kms every time they need to eat food. Further we are also disappointed with no travel arrangements being made for athletes to travel to and from the different venues despite the distance,” she added.
She further added that only fish was being provided to the athletes whereas what they required was a diet with high protein to ensure energy for competition.
“Even yesterday at the inauguration venue, we were not allowed to take in water but there was also none provided within the stadium. We understand the security of our President but at least water could have been provided,” stated the manager.
She added that children had to go in search of food yesterday as what was served did not fill their palate. However with shops all downing shutters, the only shop they got food in had run out of it.
“They only had enough rice for 6 plates and more than 40 of them had to share. We expected better arrangements, at least in the sector of food as that is the most important aspect of their development. We will leave as soon as our competition gets over as I cannot see my children suffer due to a lack of food,” she asserted.
Similar thoughts were expressed by other districts as well with some management contingents adding that they were not even provided the food packets.
As per sources, the Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA) is in charge of fooding for athletes. Many would have expected them to work on a better diet for those that have a future in various sports.