BJD criticises state over Hockey India's downgrade notice for Odisha

The opposition Biju Janata Dal has launched a scathing attack on the Odisha state government, holding it responsible for a notice from Hockey India that threatens to reduce the state's standing within the national governing body. The development has intensified political tensions over sports administration in the state.

Hockey India's notice reportedly stems from governance irregularities at the district level, where bureaucrats have allegedly continued to hold positions instead of allowing elected officials to take charge of district hockey associations. According to regulations set by the national federation, such positions are meant to be filled through democratic elections rather than bureaucratic appointments.

The BJD has contended that the state administration's failure to ensure proper electoral procedures for district units has prompted Hockey India's intervention. The party argues that the government's handling of sports governance structures has jeopardised Odisha's position within the national hockey framework.

Hockey India's action comes as part of broader efforts to standardise governance across affiliated state bodies. The downgrade would impact the state's representation and participation in national hockey programmes and competitions. Officials have not yet clarified the timeline or specific conditions for reversing the threatened action.

The matter underscores recurring tensions between state governments and national sports federations over administrative control and election procedures in sports bodies across India.