The delay in the construction work of the Bhaichung Stadium in Namchi, South Sikkim, has killed the dreams of many sports enthusiasts”, said Jacob Khaling, the Political Secretary to the Chief Minister of Sikkim.Jacob Khaling, Political Secretary to Chief Minister of Sikkim
Speaking about the various sports activities in Sikkim, Khaling stressed that Sikkim has lacked in many ways in the field of sports. However, the present government is working towards promoting and supporting sports activities in the state that is directly connected to the youth.
Speaking to Sikkim Chronicle, Khaling alleged that the earlier government was careless and lacked proper work culture. Informing that the construction of Bhaichung Stadium has been delayed by almost 10 years, he said that the previous government didn’t give any priority to sports and added that the new government now plans to uplift this sector.
The delay in completion of the construction of Bhaichung Stadium has not only hampered the area but has also affected the sports enthusiasts at large, he mentioned.Sports Minister Kunga Nima Lepcha inspecting the construction of Bhaichung Stadium (file pic) | Courtesy: Sikkim daily news
Advocating that the SKM government since it came to power 7 months ago has already initiated many schemes in regard to sports and also the pending works are being carried out, Khaling notified that completion of Bhaichung Stadium is one of many such works which has been reinitiated by the present government.Construction of Bhaichung Stadium on full swing
He further informed that SKM Party’s Sports Wing is one of the co-organisers of the All India Chief Minister’s Gold Cup. This said football tournament is being organised after 9 years in the state of Sikkim. He also informed about the to-be organised Jorethang Premier Badminton League (JPBL) and added that the SKM government largely focuses in promoting and providing a proper platform to the sporting talents of the state.
It may be mentioned here that the construction work of Bhaichung Stadium, previously known as Aaley Ground, started in the year 2011 which was initiated by the previous SDF Government, however, the work remains incomplete. The SKM government now aims to complete it by March this year. Currently, construction of playground and stadium gallery are under progress. The stadium has been named after the ace football player and former captain of the Indian Football Team, Bhaichung Bhutia.
The Chief Minister’s Gold Cup was organised every year in this very ground prior to it becoming Bhaichung Stadium. The last tournament was played 9 years ago here. This time the said tournament we’ll be held at Jorethang, South Sikkim.