Lack of support and transparency from ATTA

Editor,

We are writing to draw attention to a pressing issue concerning the Arunachal Table Tennis Association (ATTA) that is affecting the development of the sport in our state.

For nearly two years, the ATTA has been functioning in an alarmingly casual manner, with no state-level tournaments being organised. This lack of activity is in stark contrast to the role that the association should play in fostering competitive play and player development.

The primary duty of the association should be to cultivate talent through regular state-level championships and ranking tournaments, which are crucial for players to enhance their skills and gain exposure in national and regional levels.

It is disheartening to note that, despite the presence of many capable players in our state, the current leadership, including the president and the secretary of the association, has shown a lack of commitment to the development of the sport. The absence of state-level competitions is stunting the growth of these players and undermining their potential.

Moreover, there are troubling reports about the association’s financial management. Funds intended for the development of table tennis in Arunachal Pradesh – possibly sourced from the Arunachal Olympic Committee, the Sports Authority of Arunachal, or the Directorate of Sports – have been withdrawn under the banner of the ATTA. However, the exact source and utilisation of these funds remain unclear, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.

The situation is deeply disappointing for the sports community in Arunachal. While players are dedicating their efforts and passion, they receive no support from the very body meant to nurture their talent. This lack of support not only hampers individual growth but also threatens the future of the sport in our state.

We urge your esteemed newspaper, as the Fourth Pillar of democracy, to highlight this issue and raise public awareness about the inefficiencies and mismanagement within the ATTA. It is essential to call for a revolution in the way the association operates, in order to ensure that it fulfills its commitment to the players and the sport. Reform is needed to ensure that our talented players receive the support they deserve, and that the association operates with the transparency and dedication required for the development of table tennis in Arunachal.

Community for sports revolution