Kerala assembly’s anguish over Imphal Games

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, FEB 26: The Kerala assembly today expressed anguish over the fact that the state which won the highest number of gold...

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, FEB 26: The Kerala assembly today expressed anguish over the fact that the state which won the highest number of gold medals in the just-concluded Imphal National Games was relegated to the second position and blamed it on apparent ganging up and parochialism.

Cutting across party lines, the members expressed solidarity with the Kerala team and congratulated them on their outstanding performance.

Chief Minister E K Nayanar said the state’s performance was commendable. He alleged that the police, the military and some local goons had ganged up in Imphal and deprived Kerala of the pre-eminent position.

Story continues below this ad

Kerala, who were overall champions in 1987 at home, were cornered by Manipur this time with more medals 112 to 108 of Kerala for a better points tally of 486 against 481 of the southern state. Kerala, however, won three more gold medals than Manipur.

The Kerala government could not endorse such an action, he said adding that the government was ready to give the sportspersons any award which the house recommended, he said.

Sports Minister A C Shanmukhadas said Kerala losing the championship to Manipur was a black day in the history of Sports. He alleged that there was a conspiracy to ensure that the host state emerged winners.