Tripura CM Dr. Manik Saha pledged to eliminate irregularities in the Tripura Olympic Association during the Olympic Day Rally in Agartala. He assured that only genuine state athletes will represent Tripura, while emphasizing sports development, infrastructure modernization, athlete recognition, youth participation, and transparency in sporting bodies.
Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Tuesday issued a strong warning against irregularities in the state’s sports administration, declaring that only genuine athletes from Tripura would be allowed to represent the state in national and international competitions.
Addressing participants during the Olympic Day Rally organized by the Tripura Olympic Association, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for transparency, accountability, and fairness in sports governance. The rally commenced from Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan in Agartala and witnessed enthusiastic participation from athletes, sports officials, students, and dignitaries.
Dr. Saha stated that allegations of athletes from outside the state competing under Tripura’s banner had surfaced in the past and stressed that such practices would no longer be tolerated. He asserted that deserving sportspersons from Tripura must receive fair opportunities to represent the state and build their sporting careers.
“We are committed to ensuring that only genuine athletes from Tripura participate under the state’s banner. Any irregularity in sports administration will be addressed firmly,” the Chief Minister said while addressing the gathering.
Several prominent leaders and officials joined the rally, including Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Tinku Roy, Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma, Agartala Mayor Dipak Majumdar, MLA Antara Sarkar Deb, Sports Secretary Dr. P.K. Chakraborty, Director L. Darlong, Tripura Olympic Association Chairman Ratan Saha, and Secretary Sujit Roy.
Highlighting the significance of Olympic values, Dr. Saha urged citizens to embrace the principles of excellence, friendship, and respect that define the Olympic movement. He encouraged people, especially the youth, to adopt healthy lifestyles through regular physical activity and active participation in sports.
“Sports play a crucial role in shaping both physical and mental well-being. We must encourage greater participation in sports and fitness activities to build a healthier and stronger society,” he said.
The Chief Minister also reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure across the state. He noted that modern sports facilities are being developed in districts and subdivisions to create better opportunities for aspiring athletes.
According to Dr. Saha, the present government is working to address shortcomings left by previous committees that failed to contribute effectively to sports development. As part of the effort to honor sporting excellence, indoor stadiums, athletic tracks, and galleries are being named after distinguished athletes who have contributed significantly to Tripura’s sporting legacy.
The Chief Minister further assured that former athletes would receive due recognition and support from the government. He said encouraging young talents remains a key priority of the administration, as sports can provide opportunities for personal growth, discipline, and success.
Speaking on the occasion, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Tinku Roy said the government is sincerely working to create more opportunities for talented youths in sports and other sectors. He revealed that discussions are underway regarding the expansion of sports quota employment opportunities for deserving athletes, which could provide additional incentives for sporting excellence.
Other speakers at the event highlighted the importance of community participation in sports and stressed that increased public involvement can contribute to a healthier and more active society.
The Olympic Day Rally covered major routes across Agartala before concluding at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan. Organizers said the initiative aimed to promote awareness about physical fitness, inspire young athletes, and strengthen community engagement in sports activities.
In a significant development for the state’s sports fraternity, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) recently granted formal recognition to the Tripura Olympic Association. The recognition is expected to enhance the association’s credibility and facilitate greater participation of Tripura athletes in national and international competitions.
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With a renewed focus on transparency, athlete welfare, infrastructure development, and youth engagement, the state government hopes to usher in a new era of sporting excellence in Tripura while ensuring fair representation and equal opportunities for local athletes.
