Tura, Jan 16: Following viral visuals suggesting that all athletes participating in the 5th Meghalaya Games were only served light snacks for the entire day during the inaugural ceremony on Monday, Sports Minister Shakliar on Tuesday clarified that athletes were actually provided with a heavy lunch.
Due to the VVIP protocol in place, the lunch could not be transported to the venue.
Talking to reporters in Tura, Minister Shakliar explained, “We have prepared food for the athletes from the kitchen to the venue, but since vehicle movement was stopped, the vehicle transporting the food was also halted and reached the venue very late.”
The Minister added that athletes were later served a proper dinner. Regarding another viral video showing players walking by foot from the PA Sangma Stadium to their accommodations, Shakliar mentioned that due to VVIP protocols, vehicles had to park elsewhere, and athletes were not aware of the parking area for their provided vehicles.
However, the Sports Minister assured that such hiccups would not happen again. A meeting was held with Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and concerned officials to address the issue. Officials were briefed to ensure there is no shortage of food and transportation facilities for the athletes to ensure the event runs smoothly.
Mentionably, President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the 5th edition of Meghalaya Games at Tura on Monday evening. During her address to the athletes, she mentioned that she was aware of the cultural troupes and athletes waiting for her for over 3 hours, some without shirts due to their performances, and lauded them for this. She also praised them for their sportsperson spirit and young blood.
This is the first time that Meghalaya Games are being held in Tura and a head of the state has inaugurated the event.
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