Haryana’s 37,000 Players Without Diet Allowance: AAP’s Dhanda Raises Concerns

AAP’s Allegations Against BJP Government

In a recent press conference, Anurag Dhanda, a senior leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), accused the Haryana BJP government of stopping the diet allowance for approximately 37,000 athletes. He claimed these players have been without financial support for the last ten months, which he views as a severe injustice to sporting talent in the state.

Impact on Players and Future Prospects

Dhanda emphasized that Haryana has long been known as a "land of sports," producing many athletes who have represented India on international stages like the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and Asian Games. He questioned whether the achievements of these players are only valued during electoral rallies, expressing his disappointment at the government’s negligence.

Critique of the Chief Minister

The AAP leader also targeted Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, stating that many players dedicate their lives to their sport, supported by hardworking parents. He highlighted that the diet allowance for players training in sports nurseries has not been disbursed for 10 months, leading to serious concerns about their training and nutrition.

Coaches Also Neglected

In addition to the players, Dhanda noted that coaches responsible for training these athletes have also gone unpaid for the same duration. He posed the critical question: “Should athletes focus on arranging their meals or training for their sport?”

Concerns Over Sports Nurseries

Dhanda raised serious concerns about the government’s decision to close sports nurseries for two months each year, questioning how athletes can prepare for international competitions under such circumstances. His remarks spotlight the need for uninterrupted training to foster sporting excellence.

Pension Payments Suspended for the Elderly

Beyond the plight of the athletes, Dhanda addressed another pressing issue: the alleged suspension of pension payments for over 75,000 elderly individuals in Haryana. He criticized the government for complicated income assessments that disqualify many from receiving due financial support.

Unfair Income Thresholds

According to Dhanda, farmers who earn a modest income from their crops are labeled as “wealthy,” which impacts their eligibility for pensions. He pointed out the absurdity of considering a farmer’s crop income to determine overall wealth, implying that the Nayab government does not recognize the true financial struggles of everyday citizens.

Inefficient and Irregular Processing

Dhanda cited cases where pensions were halted due to inaccuracies in the Parivar Pehchan Patra (family ID), including mismatches in names, surnames, or ages. He highlighted the inconsistency that often disregards the financial status of the elderly individuals themselves.

The Public Response

Frustration is mounting as hundreds of elderly men and women stand in line at government offices in Haryana, questioning the abrupt cuts to their pensions. The ongoing disputes signal a pressing need for reform and attention to the welfare of vulnerable populations in the state.

By addressing these critical issues, Dhanda not only brings light to the challenges faced by athletes and the elderly in Haryana but also calls for accountability from the ruling government.