Wheelchair basketball body seeks public help
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, October 31 2023: While exerting pressure on the government for effective implementation of Right to Persons with Disability Act, 2016 so as to prevent differently-abled sportspersons from facing financial issues; Wheelchair Basketball Association, Manipur has appealed to all concerned to help the differently abled sportspersons to participate in the 7th Wheelchair Basketball Tournament-2023 to be held in Chhattisgarh from November 23 to 29 .

In a press meet held at Manipur Press Club, here, on Tuesday, Association general secretary and coach Yunus Khan stated that the Right to Persons with Disability Act, 2016 contains provision for ensuring welfare measures for differently abled sportspersons, but they are facing many inconveniences even in trying to take part in tournament.

He informed that a team of 22 differently abled sportspersons including six females would be participating in the 7th Wheelchair Basketball Tournament, set to be held after three years.

However, the sportspersons are facing financial issues and as such, he appealed to the people to extend their help in this regard.

Yunus continued that although the government had assured of bearing the expenses, no action has been forthcoming till date consequently forcing the sportspersons to rent a community club or hall to practice.

In connection the upcoming tournament, the Association had met related people to look into the matter, but was side-lined due to the conflict in the state which began on May 3 .

While trainings are being provided to the "normal" sportspersons under Khelo India for the National and Asian games, no such training has been provided for the differently abled sportspersons, which is disheartening, he lamented.

Comment