Surat Citizens and Athletes Challenge Navsari's Lunsikui Ground Handloom Fair Decision
In Surat, a significant controversy has erupted as prominent citizens and sportspersons have voiced strong opposition to the Navsari Municipal Corporation's (NMC) decision to allocate the Lunsikui ground for a handloom fair. The protest centers on the ground's designated purpose for sports activities and concerns over recent substandard landfilling work.
Ground Donated for Sports, Not Commercial Use
Kersi Deboo, a member of the ‘Lunsikui Ground and Pavilion Protection Committee', emphasized the historical context of the ground. "This ground was donated specifically for sports purposes," Deboo stated. "Over the years, the Lunsikui Cricket Club and various other associations have invested substantial funds in its maintenance and upkeep. During vacation periods, the ground is traditionally handed over for a handloom fair that involves large domes. If it's used for commercial purposes, where will the children play?"
Memorandum Submitted to Municipal Commissioner
A formal memorandum outlining these grievances was submitted to the municipal commissioner under the banner of the ‘Navsari District Sports Association'. The submission was supported by the presence of notable citizens, including Rustan Sadari, Bomi Jagirdar, Mayur Patel, and Bharat Sukhadiya. Patel raised allegations regarding the NMC's approach, saying, "We have maintained this ground using citizen funds for decades. NMC officials are planning developments without any public consultation. Previously, they constructed toilet blocks, and now they are permitting commercial activities. When we requested the contractor to show NMC permission, he was unable to produce any documentation."
Regular Sports Use and Past Opposition
The Lunsikui ground serves as a vital hub for multiple sports, regularly hosting cricket, football, athletics, volleyball, and hockey. Citizens have consistently opposed commercial activities on the ground, referencing a municipal resolution that explicitly reserves the area exclusively for sports. This longstanding commitment to athletic use has fueled the current backlash against the handloom fair allocation.
Criticism of Recent Landfilling Work
Deboo also directed criticism at recent leveling work conducted on the ground. "The ground was filled to increase its height, but the material used is of poor quality," he explained. "Concrete, pebbles, stones, and brick pieces are clearly visible on the surface. We have formally requested the NMC to take corrective action to address these issues."
NMC's Defense of the Decision
In response to the protests, the Navsari Municipal Corporation defended its decision, noting that the handloom fair is organized by the Gujarat government. A senior official commented, "The ground will host the fair from March 17 to 27. Since it is a government-organized event, we cannot refuse the allocation. Despite this, the ground will still be available for children and sportspersons during the vacation period."
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between municipal authorities and local communities over the use of public spaces, with citizens advocating for the preservation of sports facilities against commercial encroachments.
