Pics: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Dec 28: Beltangady MLA Harish Poonja has urged the government to appoint an administrator for the District Kabaddi Amateur Association, citing alleged irregularities in its functioning.

The MLA’s demand follows allegations by the association's president, Rakesh Malli, accusing Poonja of insulting Kabaddi players during a recent session.

Responding to the accusations, Poonja attributed the poor performance of district players at the national level to the association’s inefficiency. He highlighted that despite their talent, local players rarely make it to the state or national teams, while referees from the district seldom achieve national-level recognition. He credited educational institutions and organizations for nurturing Kabaddi talent, rather than the association.

“Rakesh Malli became vice president of the association in 2009 but obtained membership only in 2012. From 2014 to 2024, what has been his contribution to Kabaddi? He couldn’t even establish a 100-square-foot office for the association. Mats distributed to taluks were donated by MLAs or MLCs, yet the association handed them over to the sports department due to a lack of storage space,” Poonja remarked.

The MLA emphasized the need for health insurance for Kabaddi players, given the high risk of injuries associated with the sport.

He urged the association to create opportunities and platforms to showcase the talent of deserving players and support their development effectively.