Chhattisgarh High Court Initiates Suo Moto PIL Over Misconduct in SECR Boxing Ring

Officials Allegedly Turned Sports Training Facility into Venue for Alcohol and Non-Veg Party; Court Orders Inquiry

In a significant move, the Chhattisgarh High Court has taken suo moto cognizance of a public interest litigation (PIL) based on a news report highlighting gross misconduct by sports officials in the South East Central Railway (SECR) Zone. The court's decision comes following allegations that officials celebrated birthdays within the boxing ring meant for sports training and practice, indulging in alcohol consumption and non-vegetarian food.

The news item, published in the Hindi daily "Dainik Bhaskar," detailed how the SECR Zone's Sports Cell in-charge, along with coaches, assistant coaches, and players, allegedly transformed the boxing ring into a party venue. Viral photos showed individuals holding bottles and glasses filled with alcohol, while the ring was used to cook and consume fish fry and chicken, according to the report.

The court's bench, comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru, expressed concern over the conduct, deeming it a gross disregard for the sanctity of a facility meant exclusively for sports training. The report further mentioned that players' mats were used as tables, with beer bottles and snacks placed around the perimeter for the celebration.

The General Manager of SECR, Mr. Tarun Prakash, appeared before the court via video conferencing, seeking time to conduct a detailed inquiry into the allegations. The court directed him to submit a report in the form of a personal affidavit, detailing the findings of the investigation and any actions proposed or taken against the implicated officials.

The matter is scheduled to be heard again on October 31, 2025, with the court awaiting the affidavit from the SECR's General Manager. This action underscores the judiciary's commitment to ensuring integrity and discipline within sports facilities and emphasizes the importance of maintaining their intended purpose.

The case reflects a broader concern over the misuse of public resources and the need for accountability among officials responsible for managing sports infrastructure. The Chhattisgarh High Court's intervention aims to uphold the sanctity of sports venues and ensure they are used appropriately for training and practice.

Bottom Line:

Suo Moto Public Interest Litigation initiated based on a news report highlighting gross misconduct by sports officials of the SECR Zone in a boxing ring meant for sports training and practice.

Statutory provision(s): No specific statutory provisions cited in the judgment.

In the matter of Suo Moto Public Interest Litigation v. Union of India, (Chhattisgarh)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2797213