Amid allegations of mismanagement, security lapses, and extortion during the 69th National School Games in Imphal, the Director of Youth Affairs and Sports (YAS), Manipur, has stated that no formal complaint was received from the Rajasthan school Wushu team during their stay. Nonetheless, an inquiry into the matter has been initiated.
The Rajasthan contingent, comprising 52 players, performed impressively at the national-level event, with the girls’ team clinching first place and the boys’ team finishing second. However, following their departure from Manipur, players and parents raised concerns over inadequate travel arrangements. They claimed that only 24 unconfirmed train tickets were provided, forcing several athletes to travel under difficult conditions.
Responding to the allegations, the Director of YAS said, “No grievances were brought to our notice while the team was in Manipur. Had the issue been raised during their stay, it could have been addressed immediately, and an FIR could have been filed in case of extortion.” He added that despite the absence of a formal complaint, authorities have ordered a police investigation into the extortion claims.
The director also noted that the Rajasthan team left Imphal early in the morning without informing the local authorities. “Without lodging a complaint, they departed and later shared video clips on social media. Appropriate steps will be taken once the inquiry is completed,” he said.
Earlier, parents accompanying the team had alleged severe administrative mismanagement and claimed that officials and observers assigned to the event left Imphal without ensuring the safe departure of the players, particularly the female athletes. One parent alleged that the team was threatened at gunpoint by suspected armed Kuki militants during the return journey and was forced to pay money.
The incident has raised concerns over safety and logistical arrangements at school-level national competitions. While no official complaint was filed during the team’s stay, authorities have assured that the matter is being investigated and appropriate action will follow based on the findings.
