The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) finds itself embroiled in fresh controversy, with a group of para athletes raising serious allegations of favoritism and lack of transparency in the selection of officials for an upcoming international event.
Allegations of 'Back-Door' Entries and Unqualified Officials
A collective named Clean Para Sports - PCI, formed by para athletes to promote fair play, has written a formal complaint to the Union Sports Ministry. The letter highlights deep concerns regarding the list of 62 officials cleared to accompany the contingent to the Asian Youth Para Games in Dubai, scheduled from December 7 to 14.
The athletes allege that several individuals on the list secured their positions not through merit, but by leveraging their influence with top PCI officials. "It is deeply disappointing that the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) continues to misuse its authority by appointing individuals who neither possess the required qualifications nor have any credible association with para sports," the mail states. The group argues that such practices erode transparency, fairness, and the confidence of genuine athletes.
Specific Cases and Past Misconduct Cited
The complaint specifically names three persons listed as team escort and personal escort, labeling their inclusion as "back door" entries. According to the allegations, two of them have no prior involvement in para sports, while the third is a para athlete themselves and is thus ineligible to serve as an escort for other athletes.
Sources indicate that the selection process appears arbitrary, particularly in the disciplines of para athletics and para powerlifting. Critics claim that for many, it is an opportunity for a "jolly trip at government expense" after being included as a coach or escort. A review of the list reportedly shows several officials affiliated with the PCI office who lack the necessary coaching qualifications.
The letter also references troubling reports from previous international trips, where many individuals traveling as escorts allegedly disappeared upon reaching the venue, raising questions about their actual roles and responsibilities.
Ministry Directive and Broader Implications
In its communication, the sports ministry has directed the PCI to ensure that any person holding an elected position in its Executive Committee (EC), any National Sports Federation (NSF), or any sports body, whose name is on the officials' list, will travel at no cost to the government.
This latest controversy puts the spotlight back on the governance of para sports in India. It underscores a persistent trust deficit between the athletes, who are the core stakeholders, and the administering body. The allegations call for a thorough investigation to ensure that selections are based purely on merit and the genuine needs of the athletes competing on the world stage.
