Uncertainty over Winter Games in Kashmir

Srinagar, Dec 14 (UNI) Uncertainty loomed large over the holding of Winter Games at the famed tourist resort of Gulmarg beginning tomorrow as a group of people challenged the formation of an association by some ''non-professionals'' recently and termed the move as ''unconstitutional and illegal''.

The group, led by Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Development Corporation (JKTDC) Managing Director Aziz Wani, has approached the Jammu and Kashmir High Court, challenging the formation of the Winter Games Association (WGA) by Tourism Director Farooq Ahmed Shah and others on December 4 this year.

Addressing a news conference here, Mr Wani said they have moved the court to stop this ''illegal and unconstitutional'' move.

He said the WGA had been formed in 1988 with Dr Farooq Abdullah as its patron. However, due to turmoil in Kashmir, the activities of WGA were restricted, Mr Wani added.

Mr Wani said the elections to the association were held in 2000 and he was unanimously elected as its president.

''An executive body was also formed that time. However, the outgoing members gave no account of the money spent on various programmes. We noticed several others malpractices as well.'' He said financial assistance received from various organisations was spent without maintaining the records and on such activities which were not relevant for the promotion of the Winter Games.

Mr Wani alleged that both over-aged and under-aged skiers were nominated for participation in national and international events without the approval of the executive committee.

He said the people with vested interest formed a new association here on December 4 without any information.

Mr Wani said they thought it necessary to challenge the formation of the illegal association and as such approached the court.

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