Uttarakhand High Court Directs Immediate Opening of Sports Stadiums Amid Criticism Over Limited Facilities

Dehradun: In a move to address concerns over limited access to sports facilities, the Uttarakhand High Court has ordered special secretary (sports) Amit Sinha to open stadiums in Haldwani and Dehradun within 24 hours.

In accordance with the court's directives, both stadiums will remain operational daily from 6am to 8pm for regular practice sessions. Sinha assured the court that players would be able to access these facilities by Saturday.

The court also instructed Sinha to propose the construction of new stadiums in both plains and hilly regions, aimed at enhancing physical development among children across the state. Observing that many talented athletes were struggling to benefit from existing infrastructure due to its inaccessibility, the court urged immediate action without delay.

Additionally, the sports association was directed to submit a list of upcoming competitions to be allocated by the sports secretary. Maintenance costs would be covered by stadium staff, while organisers would bear responsibility for any damage incurred.

A qualified coach must also be present for every sport during practice sessions as per court guidelines.

The single bench of Justice Rakesh Thapliyal issued these directives in response to a petition filed by Dehradun resident Sanjay Rawat, who alleged misuse of Rs 12 crore government funds by the Uttarakhand Cricket Association. The complaint stated that players were denied promised facilities and fed bananas for meals worth Rs 35 lakh.

The court has scheduled its next hearing in this case for the first week of July.