Agartala, Aug. 5:
The historic Commonwealth Games judo gold medal won by Tripura’s Asmita Dey has sparked a political confrontation in the state, with the ruling BJP and the opposition CPI(M) clashing over why the athlete had to represent Uttar Pradesh and accept a job with the Uttar Pradesh Police.
Leader of the Opposition and CPI(M) state secretary Jitendra Chaudhury alleged that the lack of adequate sporting opportunities and employment in Tripura forced Asmita to leave her home state.
He claimed that despite the BJP’s “double-engine government” at the Centre and in the state, the government and the Sports Department failed to provide a stable career opportunity to an athlete of Asmita’s calibre.
Chaudhury said that while sportspersons like Dipa Karmakar had received recognition and opportunities in the past during Left regime, similar support was not extended to Asmita by the BJP government here.
He further alleged that the fact that the Commonwealth Games gold medallist dedicated her victory to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reflected the Tripura government’s failure to retain and support talented athletes.
Rejecting the allegations, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha said it is common for promising athletes to train and compete from other states or central sports institutions in pursuit of world-class coaching and infrastructure.
He maintained that the state government has consistently recognised and honoured outstanding sportspersons.
The Chief Minister said the present government has rewarded athletes through promotions, honours and incentives, citing recognition accorded to leading sportspersons, including Dipa Karmakar.
He also highlighted the development of modern sports infrastructure and the naming of stadiums and sports facilities after distinguished athletes as evidence of the government’s commitment to sports while the Left Front had politicised all sectors including sports and often their party cadres were given priority over real talents.
Dr. Saha further said that if Asmita Dey chooses to return to Tripura in the future and work in the state, the government would welcome her and extend all possible support.
The exchange has added a political dimension to Asmita Dey’s landmark sporting achievement, with the opposition questioning the state’s ability to nurture and retain elite athletes, while the government defended its record in sports development.
However, sporting fraternity have stressed that the focus should remain on strengthening sports infrastructure, ensuring quality training and creating sustainable employment opportunities to prevent talented athletes from leaving the state.
