Shillong, Sep 11: The Sports and Youth Affairs department has set up a “Cash Incentive and Sports Scholarship Inquiry Committee” to investigate the Meghalaya State Karate-Do Federation (MSKF) following allegations by the parents of young karatekas that the association is demanding a percentage from cash incentives and sports scholarships.
Director of Sports and Youth Affairs, DD Shira, on Tuesday, wrote a letter to MSKF member Lorenza Songthiang, informing her that the department had received a complaint from five individuals against her.
Shira, who is also the chairman of the inquiry committee, stated that a thorough investigation will be conducted on September 30 from 12 noon to 4 pm.
“If the matter requires further exhaustive examination, the inquiry will be extended to October 1 and 3 at the Conference Room of the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, JNS Complex, Polo Ground, Shillong. The entire proceedings will be recorded for documentation and necessary action,” Shira said.It may be recalled that the Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA) general secretary clarified that the MSKF is not affiliated with the MSOA, as the association already recognizes the All Meghalaya Karate-Do Association (AMKA).
“We cannot recognize two associations from the same discipline,” MSOA general secretary Pariat stated.
However, the MSKF has continued to receive support from the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs in organizing tournaments.
Pariat, who is also a member of the inquiry committee, said that the government had independently recognized the MSKF. “Now, we are being asked to be part of an inquiry against the same association,” Pariat added.
Despite not being recognized by the MSOA, MSKF founder Donny Ranee is currently serving as an Executive Member of the MSOA, having been elected through his membership in the Meghalaya Wushu Association.
The inquiry into the allegations against the Meghalaya State Karate-Do Federation (MSKF) highlights the growing concerns surrounding the management of cash incentives and sports scholarships meant for young athletes in the state. With serious accusations from parents that the association is demanding a portion of these funds, the investigation has become a crucial step in determining the validity of these claims.
The involvement of key officials, including the Director of Sports and Youth Affairs and members of the inquiry committee, signals the government’s commitment to transparency and fairness in addressing such issues.
While the MSKF has received support from the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, the lack of affiliation with the Meghalaya State Olympic Association raises questions about the federation’s standing within the larger sporting community. T
he investigation’s outcome will not only have implications for the MSKF but also for the state’s broader sports administration.
As the inquiry progresses, it will be closely watched by stakeholders, including parents, athletes, and sports officials, with the hope that the proceedings will safeguard the interests of young karatekas and ensure that any misuse of funds is appropriately addressed.
