Find a way out through talks: HC

The Karnataka High Court on Monday directed the State government and the athletes to discuss and arrive at a solution while hearing a matter related to the use of the Sree Kanteerava Stadium.

A division bench of acting chief justice H G Ramesh and justice PS Dinesh Kumar were hearing a petition filed by Arjuna awardee Ashwini Nachappa and 49 others, including coaches and athletes who have questioned the use of Kanteerava outdoor stadium's track and field area for conduct of football matches by JSW's Bengaluru FC.

According to the petitioners, they were being prevented from training at the venue which is being used for football activities.

The government counsel stated that athletics practice should happen in the practice area of the stadium and not the competition area as this may result in damage to the field.

After hearing the government counsel, the bench orally observed that the athletes should practice in the practice area till the time the competition is held. The athletes should avoid training in the competition area.

Build more stadia

The bench also observed that the government should improve the facilities for athletes and should build more stadiums for sporting activities.

Then bench also orally observed the access to the competition area should be regulated by the administration.

The matter was adjourned to January 5.

Earlier, the High Court had directed the Bengaluru FC to remove the barricades from the synthetic track of the stadium.

The petitioners had sought for directions from the court to remove the barricades which is preventing the athletes from using the track.

DH News Service