Now Reading: Swapan Dasgupta hints at Rabindra Sarobar Stadium revamp
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Swapan Dasgupta hints at Rabindra Sarobar Stadium revamp
BJP MLA Swapan Dasgupta said Rabindra Sarobar Stadium in Kolkata is set for a "new era" after alleged illegal occupancies were cleared, paving the way for a major renovation project. In a social media post, the Rashbehari MLA said the stadium would be upgraded and could eventually get an Olympic-standard athletics track. His remarks came after the state government reportedly locked sections of the stadium following an eviction drive.
The action followed allegations that portions beneath the stadium galleries were occupied by club offices linked to relatives of Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee and former sports minister Arup Biswas. Clubs named include Kalighat Sports Lovers' Association, Vivek Club, Kalighat Milan Sangha, and Suruchi Sangha.
The clearance has sparked anxiety among coaches and trainees at the Athletics Training Centre (ATC), which operates from the stadium complex. One coach said the ATC was found locked, affecting around 130 children who train there. Another coach alleged athletics activities have virtually stopped, forcing nearly 300 trainees to practise on dusty outer grounds, raising concerns over training standards.
Indian Opinion Analysis
Millenniumpost's report frames the eviction as a political move, leading with the BJP MLA's claim of a "new era" and naming clubs linked to Trinamool Congress figures. The story balances this by including the anxiety of coaches and trainees, but does not give voice to the state government or the affected clubs. A careful reader should note that the renovation plans are so far only hinted at by an opposition MLA, not confirmed by any official announcement. The key number to watch is whether the Athletics Training Centre reopens and the 130 trainees resume normal practice.
Coverage: 1 source, 1 government-critical
Source: millenniumpost.in (government critical)
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above. Methodology and corrections.
