Congress MP Criticizes Selection of Ahmedabad for 2030 Commonwealth Games

Concerns Raised Over Venue Selection

On Tuesday, Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda expressed strong disapproval regarding the choice of Ahmedabad as the official host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, labeling it a significant injustice to Haryana. Hooda pointed out that nearly half of India's medals in the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, and Olympics originate from Haryana, yet the state was overlooked in favor of Gujarat. He emphasized that Haryana, which has contributed 50% of the medals, has been neglected in this decision.

Hooda highlighted the need for increased investment in sports within Haryana, arguing that the state could achieve even greater success in medal counts with proper funding. He noted that Haryana has received the least budget allocation under the Khelo India program. He urged for the Commonwealth Games to be hosted in Haryana or, at the very least, for the state to be allowed to co-host alongside Ahmedabad to ensure better investment in sports infrastructure and athlete development.

Potential Impact of Investment

He further stated that while the majority of the sports budget will be spent in Gujarat, one can only imagine the potential medal tally if that investment had been directed towards Haryana. Hooda criticized the disparity in funding, asserting that while Haryana receives minimal support under the Khelo India initiative, Gujarat has been chosen to host the Commonwealth and Olympic Games. He reiterated the demand for Haryana to either host the games or be permitted to co-host, emphasizing the need for investment in the state.

Significance of the 2030 Commonwealth Games

The 2030 Commonwealth Games will commemorate the centenary of the event, with hopes of enhancing India's prospects for hosting the 2036 Olympic Games. The International Olympic Association has confirmed that Ahmedabad has been awarded the rights to host the centenary games, marking 100 years since the inaugural games held in Hamilton, Canada, in 1930. The first Commonwealth Games saw participation from only a few countries, while the latest games in Birmingham, England, in 2022 saw Australia topping the medal table, followed by England, Canada, India, and New Zealand.