“It is a players´ organization. We are not involved in politics but we announce that the players are also on the street protests now,” said Mani Kunwar, coordinator of NKD. [break]
Asked if NKD is similar to youth wings of political parties, Kunwar said, "We are for players´ welfare. We don´t wield weapons other than our hands and legs.”
Coming down heavily on National Sports Council and political leadership, Kunwar said, “We can fight our battles through legal process, by exposing irregularities in sports bodies. However, we will also resort to force if that benefits our players.”
A statement issued by NKD accuses NSC of appointing political cadres with vested interests. “They have done precious little for players´ welfare. We want NSC to get rid of such malpractices,” the statement reads.
“A person who is affiliated with a party gets financial assistance and national felicitation even when he doesn´t deserve it. But players in desperate need of assistance are neglected. If we get injured on the ground, we are forced to court political leaders for little assistance,” it added.
The newly formed NKD also accused other sports bodies of serving the interests of political parties.
Kunwar, however, said organizations like Nepal National and International Players Association led by taekwondo ace Deepak Bista are working for players. “They are doing a good job but we are here to announce that we will fight against injustice,” said Kunwar.
“Players should fight for their rights. ANFA is among the associations, who are working for the players. We are more concerned about political dominance in National Sports Council,” Kunwar said.
Kunwar is a member of ANFA executive committee and among the chief allies of ANFA President Ganesh Thapa.
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