Dehradun, Feb 3 (PTI) – The National Games Technical Conduct Committee (GTCC) has replaced Taekwondo's director of competition following serious allegations of match-fixing in 10 out of 16 weight categories before the event even began.
In response to a strong recommendation from the Prevention of Manipulation of Competition Committee (PMCC), S. Dinesh Kumar has been appointed as the new director, replacing T. Praveen Kumar. GTCC Chairperson Sunaina Kumari confirmed that PMCC's recommendations were accepted to maintain the integrity of the National Games in Uttarakhand.
“It is important that we take on board the PMC Committee’s recommendations and safeguard the credibility of the National Games,” said Sunaina in an official statement.
Reports suggest that the former director had controversially appointed office-bearers and executive committee members from various state associations, along with an equipment vendor, as sports-specific volunteers for the selection trials.
"It is shocking and sad that National Games medals were allegedly decided even before the competitions began," Usha said. "At the IOA, we are committed to ensuring fairness for all athletes and preventing any manipulation that could damage the integrity of the Games."
The taekwondo competitions, featuring 16 Kyorugi and 10 Poomsae events, are scheduled to take place in Haldwani from February 4-8.
This scandal has raised serious concerns over the credibility of sports governance in India, and the IOA’s response in ensuring transparency will be closely watched.
In response to a strong recommendation from the Prevention of Manipulation of Competition Committee (PMCC), S. Dinesh Kumar has been appointed as the new director, replacing T. Praveen Kumar. GTCC Chairperson Sunaina Kumari confirmed that PMCC's recommendations were accepted to maintain the integrity of the National Games in Uttarakhand.
“It is important that we take on board the PMC Committee’s recommendations and safeguard the credibility of the National Games,” said Sunaina in an official statement.
Reports suggest that the former director had controversially appointed office-bearers and executive committee members from various state associations, along with an equipment vendor, as sports-specific volunteers for the selection trials.
IOA President PT Usha Expresses Shock
Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha supported the decision, emphasizing the importance of fairness in sports."It is shocking and sad that National Games medals were allegedly decided even before the competitions began," Usha said. "At the IOA, we are committed to ensuring fairness for all athletes and preventing any manipulation that could damage the integrity of the Games."
PMCC’s Recommendations for Fair Play
In light of the scandal, PMCC has suggested four key measures to prevent future manipulation:- Replacement of the Director of Competition – A new official has already been appointed.
- Revamp of Technical Officials – At least 50% of the nominated technical officials should be replaced with nationally or internationally certified personnel. It remains unclear whether this step has been implemented.
- Mandatory Video Recording – All competitions must be recorded and footage preserved for transparency and future reference.
- Increased Supervision – A team of officials nominated by GTCC should be present at the venue throughout the competition to minimize the risk of result manipulation.
Shocking Match-Fixing Allegations
According to the IOA, the PMCC uncovered that certain officials from the Taekwondo Federation of India had already predetermined match outcomes in 10 of the 16 weight categories. The alleged asking price for securing a medal was ₹3 lakh for gold, ₹2 lakh for silver, and ₹1 lakh for bronze.The taekwondo competitions, featuring 16 Kyorugi and 10 Poomsae events, are scheduled to take place in Haldwani from February 4-8.
This scandal has raised serious concerns over the credibility of sports governance in India, and the IOA’s response in ensuring transparency will be closely watched.
