Haryana: Govt shocking decision for Sports persons

Haryana, June 08: In a shocking decision, The Haryana Govt has ordered the state's sportspersons to submit one-third of their earnings from professional sports and commercial endorsements to the Haryana Sports Council.

The government notification dated April 30, 2018 said the money would be used for "development of sports in the state".

"One-third of the income earned by sports-persons from professional sports or commercial endorsements will be deposited with the Haryana State Sports Council, amount to be used for development of sports in the state," the notification read.

The notification said that "in case the sportsperson is treated on-duty while taking part in professional sports or commercial endorsements", the full income must be deposited with the council.

Reacting to the shocking notification, Olympic silver medallist Sushil Kumar termed it a "burden"."Sportspersons do these extra jobs to take care of their families. The government should not burden us… Aspiring sportspersons will not be inspired by such moves. This is the first time I have heard of such a notification. The CM should review it," the wrestler said.

Echoing similar concerns, fellow wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Babita Phogat said the order was unfair.

"Does the government even realise how much hard work a sportsperson puts in? How can they ask for one-third of the income? I do not support this at all. The government should have at least discussed it with us," Babita Phogat said.