Guwahati: Barpeta MLA Dipak Kumar Das dragged the Ramrai Indoor Stadium fee controversy into the Assam Legislative Assembly on July 27. He demanded the state government explain why it handed operations of the public facility to a private entity. The Board of Sports of Assam signed an MoU giving Dipankar’s Badminton Academy control of coaching and management effective July 1.
Costs for players skyrocketed under the new system. Monthly coaching jumped from 700 rupees to a bracket between 1,500 and 12,000 rupees. The academy also added hourly and monthly corporate booking fees. Families are angry. Many athletes in this rural district come from middle or low-income households, and critics argue the commercial model ruins the purpose of a government-funded site.
The stadium historically served boxing, karate, and other disciplines. Stakeholders now fear it will become an exclusive badminton club. Doubts also persist regarding the quality of instruction. Parents pointedly noted that the academy lacks an NIS-certified coach despite the price hike. Critics argue the move ignores Khelo India program goals to keep grassroots sports accessible.
"The issue has gained political significance after being raised in the Assembly, with players and sports lovers now urging the Assam Government to review the franchise arrangement and ensure that Ramrai Indoor Stadium continues to function as an affordable, inclusive and multi-purpose public sports facility."
The public outcry stems from a total lack of consultation. The Board of Sports failed to speak with former players, parents, or local sports associations before changing the rules. Pressure mounts on officials to reverse the decision.
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