Chauhan wears black band to support women hockey team

BHOPAL - Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan on Sunday assured financial assistance to the women hockey team and supported their protest by wearing a black band on his arm.

The players of the women hockey team are protesting against the discrimination meted out to them by Hockey India.

Chauhan said, “It is a shame that there are no incentives for the hockey players in our country. They would not be able to concentrate on their game if they are forced to go through this trauma.”

“The Hockey India Federation and the Sports Ministry should think about restoring their rights. Their protest is justified and I am with them,” added Chauhan.

Chauhan added that despite presence of immense talent in our country, hockey has always been lagging behind. He assured that the state government will do all that is needful, to revive its old glory.

The women players were delighted at the announcement of funds by the Madhya Pradesh Government.

Former captain Mamta Kharab said, “I am very happy at the announcement made by the Chief Minister to provide funds for the hockey team. I want to make it clear that we are not protesting for money but against Hockey India, so that our next generation doesn’t have to fight for their rights.”

“There is still no response from the federation and that is why our black band protest is on and will continue till our demands are fulfilled,” she added.

Despite having a good run in 2009, the women’s team did not receive incentives from Hockey India on grounds of paucity of funds. (ANI)