A civil body in Manipur has drawn the attention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the alleged lack of proper functioning, faculty and infrastructure of the National Sports University (NSU) in Manipur.
In a memorandum to the Prime Minister, the Apunba Imagi Machasing (AIMS) stated that the original conception of the establishment of the NSU in Manipur has been diverted by converting the initial location into a business centre to suit specific individuals.
Apart from three courses, which are Bachelor of Physical Education and Sports (BPES); Bachelor of Science in Sports Coaching; and Sports Psychology, the syllabus of Sports Nutrition could not be completed, and two of the four members of the syllabus committee do not have the necessary background, it added.
AIMS stated that there are no regular staff since “everyone is on contract, while some recruits are on deputation,” and alleged that employees were appointed through nepotism.
“There are no Court, Executive Council, Academic and Activity Council, departmental Board of Sports Studies, and School of Board of Studies etc, without which a university cannot function as per UGC guidelines,” it mentioned. Rising questions of propriety and validity, AIMS highlighted the vacancies in various necessary positions such as dean and a pro vice chancellor.
It accused the VC for not utilising the budget provided for the university, and further stated that “they have dumped Rs 1.2 crore (Rs 60 lakh in sports psychology and also Rs 60 lakh in sports science for training methods).”
Recalling the various achievements of Manipur in national and international sports events for which the state is known as ‘The Powerhouse of Sports’, it appealed to PM N Modi to resolve the issues and in order to enable NSU to secure more gold medals in international games.
