Harendra's complaint: SAI assures strict action

Sports of Authority of India (SAI) on Tuesday assured that corrective measures have been taken following complaints from chief hockey coach Harendra Singh regarding unhygienic and poor quality food provided at its Bengaluru centre.

In a statement, SAI said there would now be monitoring systems in place which would include surprise checks.

The facilities at SAI Bengaluru were also slammed by Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore during his visit in March.

"We are deeply concerned about the quality of food and hygiene in the SAI centres and give it the highest priority. The problem in Bengaluru had come to the notice earlier during the minister's (Rathore) visit in March this year," SAI Director General Neelam Kapur said in a statement. 

"Orders have been issued to take corrective action which includes hiring a new cook, ensuring the quality of raw food supply and improving hygiene."

The matter also led the SAI DG to call an urgent meeting of the Regional Heads.

"Regional Directors will be accountable to ensure quality food and hygiene. Monitoring systems are being put in place including surprise checks. Strict action will be taken on any complaints received," Kapur said.

On receiving Harendra’s complaints, the Hockey India president Rajinder Singh broached the matter with Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president Narinder Batra, who is also the FIH president. Batra lost little time in approaching the sports ministry to initiate action on the issue. 

The Indian team is training in Bengaluru for the Champions Trophy to be held in Breda, the Netherlands from June 23.