Around 200 young hockey players, accompanied by their parents and representatives from various associations, staged a sit-in protest on Tuesday in Imphal. The demonstration was held to voice frustration over the long-standing conflict between two rival bodies—Hockey Manipur and Manipur Hockey—which, according to the protesters, has severely affected the state’s hockey ecosystem.
The protesters claimed that the 15-year power struggle between the two organizations, including court interventions, has failed to yield a single credible player from the state. They said the ongoing dispute has created confusion and helplessness among players, parents, and local hockey associations, who no longer know which authority to approach.
The protesters appealed to Hockey India, the sport’s national governing body, to form an ad-hoc committee to address the crisis. They suggested temporarily separating the two warring associations to create a more stable environment for the development of young players.
Allegations were also made against both Hockey Manipur and Manipur Hockey for misusing funds provided by Hockey India. Protesters claimed that players are often selected for state and national competitions based not on talent, but on their ability to afford travel and related expenses—undermining merit and potential.
Concerns were also raised over the apathy of the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of Manipur, which protesters say has failed to intervene meaningfully in the ongoing crisis.
The protest concluded with a silent rally along Dingko Road, near Khuman Lampak Main Stadium, where the sit-in was staged.
