Indian chess grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta has escalated his long-standing dispute over unpaid prize money from the 2024 Odisha Open chess tournament by formally approaching the Union Sports Ministry. The player, who finished third in the event held earlier this year, claims that despite repeated reminders and requests, the organizers have failed to disburse the promised prize amount of INR 1.5 lakh.
Background of the Dispute
The Odisha Open, a prestigious chess tournament organized by the Odisha Chess Association under the aegis of the All India Chess Federation (AICF), witnessed participation from several top Indian grandmasters. Abhijeet Gupta, a former Commonwealth champion and multiple national title winner, secured the third position in the event. However, months after the conclusion of the tournament, he has yet to receive his prize money.
In a letter addressed to the Sports Minister, Gupta detailed his frustration over the lack of response from the organizers. He emphasized that such delays not only affect the livelihood of professional chess players but also tarnish the image of Indian chess on the global stage. The grandmaster has urged the ministry to intervene and ensure that the dues are cleared at the earliest.
Impact on Players
This incident is not an isolated one, as several other participants of the Odisha Open have also reported non-payment of their prize money. The delay has caused significant financial strain on the players, many of whom rely on tournament earnings to support their training and participation in international events. Gupta’s move to involve the sports ministry highlights the growing frustration among chess professionals regarding the lack of accountability and transparency in tournament management.
The AICF, which oversees the conduct of national-level chess events, has been urged to take strict action against the Odisha Chess Association and ensure that all pending payments are made immediately. However, the federation has yet to issue a formal statement on the matter.
Previous Instances of Non-Payment
This is not the first time that prize money disputes have arisen in Indian chess tournaments. In recent years, several events have faced similar allegations, leading to calls for a more robust regulatory framework. The current case has reignited discussions about the need for a dedicated grievance redressal mechanism for chess players within the sports ministry.
Gupta, known for his calm demeanor, expressed his disappointment at having to resort to such measures. In his communication, he stated that he had exhausted all other options before approaching the ministry. He also highlighted the importance of timely payments to maintain the credibility of Indian chess and encourage young talent to pursue the sport professionally.
Way Forward
The sports ministry has acknowledged receipt of Gupta’s complaint and has assured him of a thorough investigation. Officials have indicated that they will direct the AICF to resolve the matter promptly and take necessary disciplinary action against the errant organizers if found guilty. Meanwhile, the chess community is closely watching the developments, hoping that this will set a precedent for better governance and financial discipline in the sport.
As the matter unfolds, other affected players are expected to come forward and join Gupta in seeking justice. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for the organization of chess tournaments in India and the protection of players’ rights.
