New Delhi: Following widespread criticism over organizational lapses at the India Open last week, the Sports Ministry has directed the Sports Authority of India (SAI) to implement corrective measures, according to reports. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya convened a meeting with SAI officials on Monday to review the issues and demand a detailed action plan.
The tournament faced numerous disruptions that drew complaints from overseas players and sparked concerns about India’s ability to host international events smoothly. Problems highlighted included bird droppings on the court, a monkey entering the spectator stands, and poorly maintained facilities such as washrooms and practice areas. While Delhi’s air quality issues were beyond control, the Ministry emphasized that proper stadium management fell squarely under SAI’s responsibility.
Sources indicated that Mandaviya questioned stadium administrators, whose absence during key moments of the tournament had compounded the chaos. “The minister has taken note and SAI will come up with details of corrective measures in the next few days,” an official noted.
The mishaps have created what is being described as a “perception crisis” for India, particularly in a year critical to advancing the country’s long-term 2036 Olympic ambitions. Danish shuttler Mia Blichfeldt called the conditions at the venue “unhealthy” and questioned the readiness of the stadium for the upcoming Badminton World Championships scheduled in August.
Observers highlighted that SAI, which oversees national camps and sports infrastructure, failed to ensure a smooth tournament. The Badminton Association of India had to manage international scrutiny despite only taking operational control of the stadium a few weeks prior. Comparisons were drawn to the para-athletics world championships held last year at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, where a Deputy Director-level officer effectively managed operations, a level of oversight lacking during the India Open.
The Ministry’s intervention signals a push for accountability and stricter operational standards from SAI to prevent similar failures at major sporting events in the future.
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