State pushes sports growth, Ludhiana administration’s neglect of players exposed; Shastri hall closed for players
Kanwar Inder Singh/ royalpatiala.in News/ May 14,2026
Under the vision of “Khed Da Punjab – Vadhda Punjab,” and despite the continuous efforts of the Punjab Government to keep youth away from drugs and promote sports, it is extremely unfortunate that the historic Shastri Hall Badminton Court, Ludhiana, has been closed indefinitely today, May 14, due to administrative failure and mismanagement.
“For decades, Shastri Hall has served as a center of fitness, discipline, and sports culture, providing youth and sports enthusiasts with a healthy environment. At a time when sports infrastructure should be further strengthened to encourage the younger generation towards positive activities, shutting down such an important facility sends a deeply disappointing message” said Rajan who comes daily to play Badminton.
“The district administration has cited non-payment of dues by certain members as the reason behind this harsh decision. However, instead of identifying the actual defaulters and taking strict action only against them, the entire complex has been shut down, unfairly punishing honest and regular members who have consistently paid their fees on time and complied with all rules and regulations” said another player.
“What is even more concerning is the excessive and unjustified increase in membership fees within a very short period. The monthly fee, which was earlier Rs. 300 per month, was increased to Rs. 1000 per month, and within just six months, it was further raised from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1500 per month. Such abrupt hikes clearly reflect administrative inefficiency, lack of planning, and failure to maintain a balanced and sustainable management system” added Rajan
Repeatedly issuing general warning messages and collectively penalizing all members only creates resentment and disappointment among genuine players and responsible citizens. The need of the hour is transparent, fair, and targeted action.
“Since the completion of care taker Kumaria’s tenure, there has been a visible decline in the court’s management and operations. The current situation clearly indicates that the district administration has completely failed in effectively managing and operating this prestigious sports facility” said Ankush a player.
“Sports facilities should be promoted, strengthened, and professionally managed — not pushed towards closure due to administrative negligence. The youth of Punjab need encouragement, opportunities, and better governance, not the shutdown of institutions that keep them connected to healthy and constructive activities.
The honest and disciplined members of Shastri Hall expect accountability, transparency, and respectful treatment from the concerned authorities.
When the news portal royalpatiala.in highlighted the issue with the district sports officer, Ludhiana Kuldeep Chugh he said “we have closed the hall due to the non deposit of fees. When shown the fee deposited by the players, he said i’ll check it with the coach. ” After few hours he said “The hall will be opened tomorrow onwards for those who will deposit the fees. Moreover we will be giving 2-3 days to the players to deposit the fee, till than they can play. We have also withdrawn the fee hike. Now the players will have to pay Rs 1000 per month instead of proposed Rs 1500 per month”.
