The Tripura Cricket Association (TCA) intensified its demand for a thorough investigation into alleged multi-crore corruption linked to the installation of high-mast floodlights at MBB Stadium in Agartala. On Monday, TCA officials met Director General of Police (DGP) Amitabh Ranjan, urging immediate action to uncover the truth behind the financial irregularities.
TCA officials have expressed growing concerns over the transparency and accountability of the project. They have alleged that the installation of floodlights, intended to elevate MBB Stadium’s status to host national and international cricket matches, has been riddled with financial discrepancies. Sources within the TCA indicated that the funds allocated for the project far exceeded the actual costs incurred, raising suspicions of misappropriation.
During the meeting, TCA representatives presented a comprehensive report to DGP Amitabh Ranjan, detailing their findings and the anomalies observed in the tendering and execution processes. The report highlighted inflated costs and potential collusion between contractors and officials responsible for overseeing the project. TCA President Subrata Dutta emphasized that cricket in Tripura would suffer unless such issues are addressed promptly. He stated that the association stands firm in its commitment to rooting out corruption to ensure the fair utilization of resources for the sport’s development in the state.
The controversy began when discrepancies in project documentation surfaced during an internal review. TCA officials discovered that the estimated costs for the high-mast floodlights were disproportionately high compared to similar projects in other states. Allegations suggest that substandard materials were used in construction, further compromising the project’s integrity. Reports also claim that some officials overlooked these issues during audits, raising questions about their involvement in the scandal.
MBB Stadium, a pivotal venue for cricket and other sporting events in Tripura, has long awaited modernization. The installation of floodlights was envisioned as a crucial step toward attracting higher-profile matches and nurturing local talent. However, the alleged corruption has cast a shadow over these ambitions. Cricket enthusiasts and stakeholders across the state have expressed disappointment, voicing their frustration over the misuse of public funds.
The TCA’s call for action has found support among various quarters. Several former cricketers and sports administrators in Tripura have urged the government to ensure a transparent probe. They argue that corruption not only undermines public trust but also deprives young athletes of opportunities to showcase their skills on a larger platform. Social media has amplified these sentiments, with hashtags demanding justice trending among cricket fans in the region.
DGP Amitabh Ranjan assured the TCA of a fair and thorough investigation into the matter. He acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and pledged to form a dedicated team to examine the financial records, tender documents, and construction standards associated with the floodlight installation. He also stated that any individuals found guilty of wrongdoing would face strict legal consequences.
While the investigation is expected to shed light on the extent of the alleged corruption, the situation has sparked a broader debate on the governance of sports infrastructure projects in India. Critics argue that systemic reforms are necessary to prevent such irregularities in the future. They suggest implementing stricter oversight mechanisms and engaging independent auditors to monitor large-scale projects.
For the cricket-loving population of Tripura, the scandal represents a significant setback. Many fear that the controversy will delay MBB Stadium’s readiness to host matches, further marginalizing the state in the national cricketing landscape. The stadium, which has been a source of pride for Agartala residents, now risks becoming a symbol of mismanagement.
The Tripura Cricket Association has vowed to keep pushing for accountability. Subrata Dutta affirmed that the TCA would continue to cooperate with authorities and provide any additional evidence necessary to expedite the investigation. He called on the state government to prioritize the case and send a strong message against corruption in sports administration.
As the investigation unfolds, all eyes will remain on the authorities to ensure a transparent and decisive resolution. The people of Tripura, united in their love for cricket, hope for swift justice and a renewed focus on the sport’s growth in the region.