The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has formally approached the Delhi government seeking urgent clarification about the upcoming National Championships scheduled for next month, as the capital continues to battle severe air pollution. The sports body finds itself in a difficult position with the championships planned during peak pollution season.
Government Directives Create Uncertainty
The Delhi government had earlier issued directives to educational institutions and sports organizations, asking them to postpone all physical sports competitions due to the dangerously poor air conditions. However, the NRAI had already scheduled its annual national championships at Dr Karni Singh Ranges in Tughlaqabad with specific dates: December 11 to January 4 for the main events, and shotgun events planned for December 1-5.
NRAI secretary Rajiv Bhatia clarified their position, stating, "The Delhi government order specifically mentions students and schools. We are now seeking clarification from the body that has issued the orders. We will wait for their decision." He emphasized that the association would comply with whatever decision the government takes regarding the event.
Legal Pressure Mounts on Pollution Control
The situation gained additional legal significance when the Supreme Court, on November 19, requested the Commission for Air Quality Management to consider postponing open-air sports competitions in Delhi-NCR planned for November and December to safer months due to pollution concerns. This judicial intervention adds weight to the environmental concerns surrounding outdoor events.
Simultaneously, the Delhi High Court has asked for a status report from the Directorate of Education regarding a plea from school students about scheduling outdoor sports events during peak pollution months from November to January. The Delhi government subsequently issued directives on November 21 requiring NCR state governments and Delhi administration to postpone such events due to high pollution levels.
Contingency Plans in Motion
Recognizing the potential challenges, the NRAI has already begun internal discussions about alternative arrangements. Rifle events have been safely relocated to Bhopal, while the shotgun and other events scheduled for Delhi remain uncertain.
Bhatia acknowledged the logistical challenges, stating, "Naturally shifting is an option. We can't go against the law of the land. That issue is already being discussed internally. We are open with the options. It will be inconvenience to everyone, not just the NRAI, the athletes also."
The secretary further explained that in case of relocation, the association would have to move significant logistics but would try to maintain the same competition dates. He emphasized that the NRAI cannot be held responsible for circumstances beyond their control, given their commitment to following government directives.
As the National Rifle Association of India awaits the government's response, athletes and sports enthusiasts across the country watch with bated breath, hoping for a resolution that balances sporting commitments with health concerns during Delhi's annual pollution crisis.
