Why Manipur Athletes Are Protesting, Threatening to Boycott National Games?

The protesting athletes have warned that their agitation will intensify if their demands are not addressed before the Games commence.

Manipur is known as the Sports Power House of Northeast. The state has produced athletes like Mary Kom and Mirabai Chanu. But today the state saw nearly two dozen youth athletes stage a protest outside the official residence of Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.

They were demanding that the government fulfill its promise of providing jobs. The protest stems from an assurance made by the Chief Minister on January 25, 2024, pledging government jobs to gold medallists from the 36th and 37th National Games.

However, nearly three years after securing their medals, the athletes claim there has been no progress or official communication regarding the promised employment.

Speaking to the media, archery player L. Rojina expressed deep frustration over the government’s silence. “The government made a promise, but till now there’s no clarity on when these jobs will be provided. If no concrete steps are taken in few days, we will boycott the upcoming 38th National Games,” she said.

The 38th National Games are scheduled to begin in Uttarakhand on January 28. The protesting athletes have warned that their agitation will intensify if their demands are not addressed before the Games commence.

Despite the athletes’ warnings and growing discontent, the state government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the matter.

Also Read: Video: 2 Arrested in Manipur For Using Harmful Chemicals To Ripen Bananas. Is the Banana You Are Eating Safe?

For more news and updates, visit: Northeast Live

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