SOCIAL MEDIA MISCONDUCT BY ATHLETES TO INVITE SEVERE ACTION, VIOLATIONS MAY LEAD TO BAN FROM STATE TO INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS
Face2News/Chandigarh
In a major step to uphold discipline, dignity and the image of sport, the Haryana Olympic Association (HOA) has issued a strict advisory to all athletes and coaches, warning against the display of arms, weapons, violence-related content and irresponsible conduct on social media platforms.
The advisory follows recent incidents in which certain athletes and coaches were found sharing photographs and videos featuring firearms, weapons and violent behavior on social media. The HOA has stated that such acts are against the spirit of sports, damage its moral values, and send a highly negative message to society, particularly to the youth.
This decisive action has been taken after a formal complaint lodged by Advocate Rajnaryan Panghal, and strong objections raised by Arjuna Awardees, Bhim Awardees and several eminent sportspersons of Haryana, who unanimously described this trend as completely incompatible with the values of sportsmanship, discipline and social responsibility.
Strict Action, Including Possible Ban : The Haryana Olympic Association has made it clear that any player or coach found uploading photos or videos displaying weapons or promoting violence on social media may face disqualification and ban from participation in state, national and international competitions.
In addition, such violations may attract suspension, disciplinary proceedings, legal scrutiny and intimation to concerned authorities, depending on the gravity of the offence.
Zero-Tolerance Policy Enforced: HOA President Captain Jasvinder “Meenu” Beniwal has directed all District Olympic Associations, State Sports Associations and District Sports Officers to immediately circulate and strictly enforce this advisory.
The association has reiterated that use, possession or display of weapons, violence, unlawful activities, or posting provocative, threatening or offensive content on social media will not be tolerated at any level.
Mandatory Awareness & Training Programmes : The HOA has further directed that mandatory awareness programmes be conducted at least once every year in each district and sports institution. These sessions shall cover sports discipline, legal responsibilities, responsible use of social media, public conduct and the ethical standards expected from athletes and coaches.
Senior athletes, coaches and sports personalities across the state have welcomed this move, stating that athletes are role models both on and off the field, and their behavior significantly influences society and the younger generation.
APPEAL TO ENSURE WIDE DISSEMINATION AND STRIC COMPLIANCE
“The Haryana Olympic Association appeals to all administrative units, sports bodies and district officials to ensure wide dissemination and strict compliance of this advisory. We firmly believe that this step will help establish a safe, disciplined and positive sporting culture in Haryana, where athletes set examples not only through performance but also through character and conduct.”
— Captain Jasvinder Singh ‘Meenu’ Beniwal, President, Haryana Olympic Association.
