A controversy brews in Sabroom, Tripura, as the government-built indoor stadium meant for athletes is allegedly rented out for commercial use, housing out-of-state workers for months. Locals question governance and misuse of public sports infrastructure.
A fresh controversy has emerged in South Tripura’s Sabroom subdivision after it came to light that the newly built Sabroom Indoor Stadium, inaugurated with much fanfare in 2022, has allegedly been rented out for commercial purposes. The stadium, envisioned to promote sports and nurture young athletes, is now reportedly being used as a temporary residence for laborers engaged in a power grid project — a revelation that has triggered public outrage and raised serious questions about the management of public infrastructure.
From Sports Arena to Workers’ Shelter
According to local sources, the indoor stadium located at Harina Tilla under Doulbari Gram Panchayat in Satchand RD Block has been accommodating around 40 to 45 out-of-state workers for the last five to six months. These workers, believed to be involved in projects under the Tripura Electricity Department, are paying a monthly rent of ₹15,000 to occupy the premises.
The arrangement, locals allege, was made in the presence of senior members of the Doulbari Panchayat, and the rent is being deposited into the account of Gita Rani Nath, raising eyebrows about how such an agreement could be authorized for a public facility.
Built to Boost Sports, Not Business
The Sabroom Indoor Stadium was inaugurated by Minister Sushanta Chowdhury on December 1, 2022, as part of the government’s effort to expand sports infrastructure in South Tripura. The facility was intended to serve as a training and competition venue for local youth, particularly in indoor games like badminton, table tennis, and volleyball.
The stadium’s misuse has disappointed many sports enthusiasts who had celebrated its inauguration less than three years ago. Local players and sports associations have voiced frustration over what they describe as a blatant misuse of public property meant for athletes and youth development.
“We were promised a place to practice and hold local tournaments. Now it’s being used as a lodge for workers. This is not what public funds were meant for,” said a local sports coach from Sabroom.
Community Outrage and Calls for Accountability
Residents of Harina Tilla and surrounding areas have expressed anger over the decision to rent out the stadium, terming it a violation of public trust. Many are demanding a probe to determine how a government-funded sports facility could be converted into a commercial lodging without proper authorization.
Local youth organizations have reportedly submitted written complaints to the Satchand RD Block Administration, urging them to investigate the matter and restore the stadium to its intended purpose.
“Public infrastructure, especially those built for sports promotion, should not be commercialized. This sends the wrong message to young athletes,” said a member of a local youth association.
Administrative Response Awaited
As the controversy intensifies, residents are awaiting a formal response from the Satchand Block Administration. Officials have yet to issue a public statement, though sources within the administration suggest that an internal inquiry might soon be initiated to verify the facts and determine responsibility.
Legal experts point out that renting out government sports infrastructure without proper authorization may constitute misuse of public property under administrative regulations, potentially attracting disciplinary action if proven true.
A Broader Issue of Infrastructure Management
This incident also reignites debate over the maintenance and management of rural infrastructure in Tripura. Many projects built with public funds often face neglect, poor oversight, or repurposing once inaugurated. Critics argue that such lapses erode public confidence and undermine development goals.
Observers note that this case could serve as a litmus test for local governance and transparency in rural project management. The outcome of the administration’s response will likely shape public perception of accountability in government-led infrastructure projects.
Awaiting Justice and Restoration
While the administration’s official word is awaited, the residents of Sabroom hope for swift action to reclaim the stadium for its rightful use. For now, the once-promising sports complex stands as a symbol of unrealized potential and questionable governance, where the spirit of youth sports seems overshadowed by bureaucratic indifference.
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