No politics in sports: Omar Abdullah defends ‘merit-based selection’ of J&K Santosh Trophy team

KINS Correspondent

Jammu, Dec 15 (KINS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday defended the selection of the Jammu and Kashmir Santosh Trophy football team, stating that the squad has been chosen purely on merit and hard work, and not on regional or political considerations.

Speaking to reporters in Jammu, Omar said there should be absolutely no place for politics in education or sports, stressing that both sectors must remain free from regional bias and external pressure. “The players who have been selected have earned their place through performance and dedication. Selection should be respected when it is based on merit,” he said, according to news agency Kashmir Indepth News Service (KINS).

The Chief Minister’s remarks came amid allegations from Jammu that the Santosh Trophy team comprises players predominantly from the Kashmir region. The issue has sparked debate across the Union Territory, with some quarters questioning whether the selection process adequately represented all regions.

Responding to these concerns, Omar said talent should be the only criterion in sports selection, irrespective of a player’s place of origin. “If a player performs well, he deserves to be selected. Regional identity should not override merit,” he added.

Earlier, the Sports Minister had said that the government would look into the matter to ensure that the team was selected in a fair and transparent manner. The announcement of a possible probe has further fueled discussions within sporting circles.

However, Omar Abdullah urged people to avoid politicising the issue and instead support the players who will represent Jammu and Kashmir at the national level. He said that unnecessary controversies can demoralise athletes and negatively impact their performance. (KINS)