Kolkata: Be it twenty-two yards of cricket or other sports, corruption is rampant across the field. Allegations against sports administrators. Someone is accused of getting a chance in the team in exchange for money, while someone’s name is involved in sticking to the rules of the sports administration outside of the rules. Many times the rising players are being cheated, forced to bow down to corruption.

State Sports Minister Indranil Khan approached the former president of CAB and at one time the Indian Cricket Board to make the sports field of Bengal free from corruption. IPL Abhishek Dalmiya on the Governing Council. Whose other identity, he is the son of legendary cricket administrator, late Jagmohan Dalmiya. Abhishek has written a letter to Indranil Khan, Minister of State for Sports on Independent Charge of West Bengal, and made a novel proposal. Requested that a helpline number should be opened. Where from budding players to concerned parents, well-wishers of the sports world – victims of corruption can call the number to report directly. Abhishek has also requested that the Sports Department investigate the complaint and take strict action.

Abhishek wrote in the letter, ‘I am writing this letter with deep concern for the future of sports in the state and for the sake of numerous young players. I think that the only criterion for determining their future should be based on their talent and performance. Allegations of corruption, favoritism, eligibility fraud and abuse of power in various sports have come to light in the last few years. There are often allegations that a player or his family is forced to pay money to play, get a place in the team, or even join the academy. There have also been accusations of rigging what the qualification should be and depriving genuine talented local players. Which is very worrying. As a result, the credibility of the playground is being questioned.

After that, Abhishek wrote, ‘In particular, I will talk about a committee member of a renowned sports organization in the state. Who is alleged to have taken money from the player and his family in return for giving him a chance in the team and participating in the competition! It is learned that all the documents including screenshots of the money transaction and direct bank transfer were submitted to the concerned authorities. But there was no transparent investigation. Instead the complainant was forced to withdraw the complaint. Whether such allegations are ultimately proven true or not, there is an urgent need for an impartial and transparent investigation into allegations of corruption, extortion, financial irregularities, abuse of power and unethical practices. If not, people’s trust in sports institutions will decrease.

Without naming it, everyone is sure that Abhishek meant CAB, the governing body of Bengali cricket, by ‘reputable sports body’. Because, last year, there was a storm around the accusation against a member of CAB for giving opportunities to the party in exchange for taking money. A complaint was also filed with the CAB. But later it was alleged that it was covered up.

Abhishek has sought the sports department’s intervention on such allegations. Wrote, ‘I request the West Bengal Government to launch a completely separate and confidential Sports Integrity and Anti-Corruption Helpline. Through which athletes, parents, coaches, officials, protestors and common people can submit complaints against corruption in the field of sports. In which case the identity of the complainant will remain confidential. And he shall be protected from threats or reprisals.’

Abhishek also wrote, ‘During my tenure as CAB president, I was uncompromising on rules and regulations. I would ensure that transparency is maintained in the tournament. It is true that a large part of my tenure was affected by covid, but even then steps were taken on various issues. About fifty people were deported, who had used fake identity cards. Or broke eligibility laws. The purpose was the same. So that real local cricketers get the opportunity they deserve and showcase their talents.’

Abhishek Tope, ‘Unethical activities of a few people can spoil the image of the institutions. And can destroy the dreams of qualified athletes. West Bengal has produced some outstanding sportspersons over the ages who have made our state and country proud. Therefore, athletes deserve an environment where opportunities are determined based on talent-performance. Not based on influence, manipulation or money. Let us all build a sports culture based on transparency, accountability and justice. And equal opportunity for all.’

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