[ Prem Chetry ]
TAWANG, 31 Jul: The public of Tawang have opposed the introduction of an entry fee for watching the upcoming Independence Day (ID) Cup football tournament at the high altitude stadium here.
Lobsang Gyatso, Tawang district president of the Aam Aadmi Party, stated, “Football is one of the most popular games, and this tournament is a celebration and commemoration of our independence. Why should people pay Rs 50 per person to watch such an event in a government-owned and managed stadium?”
He further noted that this is the first time an entry fee has been introduced for the Independence Day Cup, calling it an unfair burden on the public.
In response, Koncho Tashi, a renowned footballer from the state, assistant coach and assistant manager of the Indian National Futsal Team, and manager of the Futsal & Grassroots Development Committee of Arunachal Pradesh, who is also the organizing chairman of the tournament and secretary of the Tawang District Football Association, explained that the fee is intended to generate funds to cover a fraction of the tournament’s expenses.
He elaborated that organizing a tournament requires significant funding, including costs for regular maintenance, cleaning, and other expenses incurred daily to maintain the stadium’s quality and match standards. An estimated Rs 3 lakh is expected to be generated through entry fees during the tournament.
“We have exemptions for children below 14 years, senior citizens above 60 years, college students, and persons with disabilities,” Tashi added.
However, many residents of Tawang continue to oppose the entry fee, arguing that the stadium is owned and managed by government bodies responsible for its cleanliness, electricity, maintenance, and asset upkeep.
According to sources, the 2024 Independence Day Cup initially charged an entry fee, which was later withdrawn due to public opposition. In the instant case, many residents have advocated free entry to the tournament, while others suggested a maximum fee of Rs 20.
