Boxers Encounter Logistical Challenges as Accommodation Issues Arise at National Championships

Boxers and team officials at the National Boxing Championships were asked to vacate their accommodation due to unconfirmed bookings, causing significant logistical challenges. Reports of belongings being moved and inadequate facilities have raised concerns among participants.

Boxers, coaches, and officials from various state teams faced accommodation issues at the National Boxing Championships on Friday. They were unexpectedly asked to leave their rooms, raising logistical concerns. This problem emerged for the second day in a row, with many officials stating they were informed that their room reservations were not confirmed for the tournament's last three days.

Upon returning from the competition venue, several teams found their belongings packed and moved to the reception. A team official, speaking anonymously, mentioned that they were told to vacate as their bookings were not completed. Teams from Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Manipur, and Tamil Nadu reported similar issues.

Accommodation Concerns at National Boxing Championships

Images of boxers and coaches standing outside in temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius circulated widely within the boxing community. A coach claimed there were no locks in their rooms and upon returning from the venue, their bags were already packed and placed at the reception. This situation added to the discomfort of those affected.

The national federation's tournament prospectus clearly stated that "free lodging and boarding will be provided to all boxers and officials by the organisers." However, officials alleged that their repeated attempts to contact organisers went unanswered. This lack of communication further exacerbated the situation for those involved.

BFI's Response to Accommodation Issues

The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) intervened after learning about the accommodation problem. "Immediate steps have been taken to ensure that the affected athletes have been accommodated at the nearest facility at GB University, where suitable sleeping arrangements have been made for the night," BFI stated. The Federation assured that it is closely monitoring the situation.

This accommodation issue is just one of several controversies affecting the National Boxing Championships this week. The event has also faced challenges like refereeing disputes, judging controversies, disrupted bouts, and scheduling chaos. These problems have overshadowed the championship's proceedings.

With inputs from PTI