Srinagar, May 18: Soon after the Lockdown 4.0 guidelines were made public on Sunday, the major question being asked is whether the sports activities will resume or not?
Since the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) mention, ‘Sports complexes and stadia will be permitted to open, however, spectators will not be allowed,’ the sportspeople are in a dilemma. In another guildine, sports is mentioned in the gatherings that are prohibited.
Although it is still unclear if the sports activities could resume anytime soon, the sportspeople are already curious.
“This gives us hope. Now one can at least practice. However, I believe it will take some time to settle down and major events at the moment look like a far-away thing.” Akber Khan, Kashmir’s celebrated cyclist, told KSW.
The sportspeople think these guidelines could bring some relief to them,
“I think it’s a good step. Resuming physical activities could be the best step to counter the physical and mental effects of Covid-19.” Bilquis Mir, J&K’s international sports coach, said.
“However, athletes need to maintain social distance and be cautious. If the future of sportspersons is to be secured, they are needed to resume the practice soon.”
To know if the sports activities will resume in J&K, KSW reached Secretary J&K Sports Council, Naseem Javid Choudhary, who said the matter was under consideration.
“Matter is under consideration. As soon as the decision is taken, it will be made public.” He said.
Coronavirus outbreak has taken a toll on all sports activities across the World, leading to cancellation of major events like Olympics 2020. As various nations now believe ‘they have to learn to live with Coronavirus’, the restrictions are being eased up. Pertinently, sports activities too are expected to resume, though with all precautions put in place.