Athletes complain of inadequate meals at 5th Meghalaya Games
TURA, Jan 16: Following complaints, the Organising Committee comprising officials of the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs and the Meghalaya State Olympic Association has acknowledged the concerns raised regarding inadequate food provided to athletes during the ongoing 5th Meghalaya Games.
“This is the first time that the Meghalaya Games is being held on this scale, and also it is the first edition being held in Tura. The opening ceremony on January 15 was graced by the President of India and was a resounding success, which saw the participation of athletes, cultural troupes, and youth from the entire state, and a large number of volunteers from within Tura town,” the committee said in a statement.
Multiple kitchens and dining areas have been set up to cater to the needs of the athletes, it said.
“On the day of the opening ceremony, two sets of packed food were provided to the athletes at the venue but due to some delays on account of restrictions, some athletes raised the matter of insufficient food which was promptly addressed by the authorities. Immediately after the event, dinner was activated in all the dining areas by 7 pm,” the committee said.
“I understand some people might have faced inconvenience which the organizing committee deeply regrets. All athletes’ canteens are operational and nutritious food is being provided. Every effort is being made to address any gaps found and we will continue to prioritize the well-being of our athletes,” John Kharshiing, the working president of the MSOA said.
The complaints spurred the members of the state BJP to offer their services to the participants of the Meghalaya Games on Tuesday if they face any problems.
“There are some WhatsApp videos and comments. I think the government should have taken proper care because so much money is being spent for this event and all the institutions have provided space to accommodate the athletes,” Tura MDC and BJP vice-president Bernard Marak said.
The gloss of the opening ceremony was somewhat dimmed by the athletes from the districts complaining that they were served junk food instead of a proper lunch. All the shops near the Games inauguration venue were shut down because of security reasons, leaving many of the athletes with no option but to go hungry.
The food packets contained some cashew nuts, two small samosas, a potato patty, a small packet of potato chips, a Tetra Pak fruit juice, and a packet of bhujia.
“We are ready to help the participants facing trouble with food and other issues. They are our guests and it is our duty as elected representatives to look after them,” Marak said, providing a phone number (9436112975) for anyone in need of assistance.