Mahto claims huge support in JSCA elections

Jamshedpur, May 6 (UNI)Jharkhand Home and Sports minister Sudesh Mahto, who will file his nomination for the post of Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) president's elctions here tomorrow, claimed huge support of the members for the May 14 elections at Bokaro.

Talking to mediapersons here this evening after a felicitation function, organised by Tata Steel Sorts Dempartment, the minister said he had no competition with any one and the elctions would be contested with sportsman spirit.

When pointed out that earlier he had refused to drag himself in the politics of JSCA and what prompted him to change his mind, Mr Mahto said ''I took the decision to contest the elections as my well wishers from the sports fraternity and the politcal circle requested me and I am just fulfilling their desires.'' ''Moreover, if I win it would be a great opportunity for me to promote the sports in the state'', Mr Mahto said.

He, however, denied the backing of a leading corporate house saying he would be enjoying the support of the JSCA members.

The incumbent president of JSCA Amitabh Choudhary is the other contestant for the post.

Earlier, speaking at the felicitation, Mr Mahto said though the work for the preparations of the 2007 National Games began a bit late in the state capital but all the infrastructural facilities would be ready in time and the steel city, which is considered as the sports capital of Jharkhand, would invariably be a part of the National Games.

The sports minister said he was determined to promote sports acitivites in the state.

REUTERS PM KN2212