Gadag
BJP leader and former Gadag Assembly constituency candidate Anil Menasinakayi has alleged irregularities in ongoing work related to a football track at the district stadium and demanded an independent investigation into the project.
Menasinakayi alleged that the work was being undertaken without a comprehensive technical assessment, public consultation or discussions with different sports organisations. He said the district stadium is used for cricket, athletics, football, government programmes, public functions and daily exercise by residents, and warned that unscientific changes could affect its multipurpose use.
He questioned whether soil, water drainage and stadium capacity had been technically assessed before the work began. He also sought details about the technical and administrative approvals, estimated cost, tender process, contractor and source of funds. He asked whether sports organisations, morning walkers and members of the public had been consulted.
Menasinakayi further alleged that the proposed work may have been influenced by political considerations and demanded that the Karnataka Lokayukta take suo motu action and investigate the project approval, cost estimates, tender process, contract and release of funds. He stressed that his objection was not against football players but against altering the existing stadium without adequate assessment.
He demanded an immediate halt to the work until an independent technical inquiry is completed. He also sought publication of the project report, map, estimated cost and tender documents, along with an open meeting involving sports experts, engineers and sports organisations.
He suggested constructing a separate, well-equipped football stadium at an alternative location. He warned of legal action and peaceful protests if the administration continued the work without addressing public concerns.
Lokayukta probe demanded into stadium
Menasinakayi demanded a Lokayukta investigation into the stadium project, citing political bias and poor assessment. He urged an immediate halt, transparent public documents, and an alternative site for a new football stadium, warning of protests and legal action.
