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Shadow Games: How Sports Complexes Turn into Rent-a-Halls

The internet was abuzz with a strange revelation. The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) Peshawar Coaching and Training Center, following a Right to Information application, had posted its 2025 activities. But what the website revealed was not a display of sporting excellence but a strange combination of badminton trials, army competitions, intelligence seminars, and even college tournaments – all under the banner of "sports activities."

The virtual trail, laid bare now, told a story far different from the center's mission. January experienced badminton trials and cricket team stays, with payments in cash changing hands but undisclosed. February became a rental point, complete with an Intelligence Bureau seminar, military competitions, Cantonment Board games, and even Shaheed Benazir Bhutto College tournaments. The hostel was used as a revolving door, which hosted blind players as well as military personnel.

March's records were no less confounding. Under-22 Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sports Directorate volleyball tournaments were inaccurately stated as Under-21 and dated accordingly, but hostel and gymnasium rental fees were left hidden. PSB Peshawar Center, intended for developing sporting abilities, had appeared to have shifted to a business-friendly event ground at the cost of its objective.

Rumors spread. Had the center reduced itself to a facilitator, a go-between for rental of facilities? Where were the grassroots programs, the development of athletes? Lack of openness regarding payments kept speculations afloat. Was it bureaucratic bungling, or something worse?

The electronic files, intended to shed light, had instead unleashed a Pandora's box. Citizens were calling for explanations. How could an institution of sport stray so far from its mandate? Where was the responsibility? The revelation ignited a national debate regarding the condition of sports administration, the value of openness, and the necessity to maintain the genuine spirit of sporting development. The question lingered: would this electronic revelation bring about reform, or would the shadow games persist?

#kikxnow #sports #psb #peshawar #pakistan #games #sportsnews #whereisports #18amendment #accountability #transparency #sportsadministration #corruption #righttoinformation #publicrecords #mismanagement #athletedevelopment #pakistansports

Mardan's Green Heart Bleeds: Sports Complex Under Siege by Illegal Logging!

The air in Mardan's Sports Complex, once crisp and vibrant, now hangs heavy with the scent of freshly cut wood – a grim testament to the ongoing environmental assault. The majestic trees that lined the complex, providing shade and vital oxygen, are falling one by one, victims of an illegal logging operation that has sparked outrage and fear among residents.

The scene is a stark contrast to the lively sporting events usually held within the complex. Where athletes once ran under leafy canopies, now stand stumps and debris, a silent accusation against those responsible. Whispers swirl, pointing fingers at the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), who allegedly granted permission for the felling – a power that, according to environmental law, rests solely with the Department of Environmental Protection.

"It's a betrayal," lamented a local environmental activist, his voice thick with frustration. "This isn't just about trees; it's about our future. Each tree felled is a blow to our air quality, our biodiversity, and our children's health."

The complex, a haven for recreation and a symbol of community pride, is now a battleground. This isn't the first time the axes have fallen here. Just weeks ago, a similar incident saw numerous trees vanish, leaving a trail of unanswered questions and unfulfilled promises of investigation. Now, the cycle repeats, fueling public distrust and demanding urgent action.

The silence from the Sports Minister, Sports Secretary, and DG Sports is deafening. Residents are demanding accountability, demanding to know who authorized this destruction and why. The fear is palpable: if this continues, what will be left of Mardan's green spaces?

Environmental experts warn of dire consequences: rising air pollution, disrupted ecosystems, and a cascade of ecological problems. The once vibrant complex, a sanctuary for both athletes and nature, risks becoming a barren wasteland, a stark reminder of unchecked greed and bureaucratic negligence.

The people of Mardan are raising their voices, demanding justice for the silent victims – the trees. They are calling for immediate intervention, for strict action against those responsible, and for a commitment to protecting the remaining green spaces. The message is clear: the green heart of Mardan will not be silenced.

#SaveTrees #EnvironmentalProtection #IllegalTreeCutting #Mardan #SportsComplex #MardanBleedsGreen #StopLogging #EnvironmentalCrisis #JusticeForTrees

Ehsaas Naujawan Program: Interest-Free Loans Facilitate Youth Entrepreneurship in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

The Ehsaas Naujawan Program (ENP) has made a substantial stride towards the promotion of youth entrepreneurship and economic independence in Pakistan by providing interest-free loans under two significant components. ENP aims to target the youth of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa so that they can set up or grow their businesses.

The first element of ENP, administered by the Bank of Khyber, offers interest-free loans of PKR 1.0 to 5.0 million. The purpose of this scheme is to benefit medium-scale business propositions by grouping three to five individuals into an Association of Partnership (AOP). The loans under this element bear an easy repayment schedule of 96 months, along with a 20-month grace period.

So far, 9,460 applications have been received online. Following a rigorous three-tier verification process, 25 potential clusters have been discovered, and PKR 61.9 million has been disbursed. The Bank of Khyber has released PKR 200 million to the project from the released funds.

The second element, carried out by Akhuwat Microfinance Bank, aims at small business ventures through provision of loans between PKR 0.1 to 0.5 million. The element is specifically aimed at marginalized youth and targets financial inclusion with a quota for women, special-ability youth, madaris youth, and minorities. PKR 200 million has been contributed to Akhuwat by the funds released.

Peshawar: 2,514 applications; 14 approved; PKR 36.3 million spent

Mardan: 379 applications; 0 approved

Hazara: 558 applications; 0 approved

Malakand: 4,241 applications; 8 approved; PKR 18.3 million spent

Bannu: 825 applications; 1 approved; PKR 1.5 million spent

DI Khan: 555 applications; 1 approved; PKR 2.8 million spent

Kohat: 388 applications; 1 approved; PKR 3 million spent

Total: 9,460 applications; 25 approved; PKR 61.9 million spent

The program has been welcomed by young entrepreneurs who view this as a chance to gain financial freedom. Others wait for the verification process to complete. The program remains focused on inclusive economic growth through equitable access to resources and opportunities throughout Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

#EhsaasNaujawan #YouthEmpowerment #Entrepreneurship #KPKDevelopment #InterestFreeLoans #Akhuwat #BankOfKhyber #PakistanYouth

Sports or Just Paperwork? Suspicious Dates, Questionable Spending in Upper Chitral's Sports Office Report

A recently submitted report by the District Sports Office (DSO) of Upper Chitral for the fiscal year 2023–24 has revealed alarming inconsistencies — from events recorded on future dates to massive spending on select tournaments without proper justification. The discrepancies raise serious questions about transparency, accountability, and the responsible use of taxpayer money.

One of the most glaring issues is the inclusion of the “Istaro Sports Gala” marked for July 15–20, 2025, yet Rs. 60,000 are already shown as spent. Similarly, events like the Zeyat Cricket Tournament and Boolan Lasht Tournament—scheduled for May and April 2024—have also been included in the 2023–24 financial year budget, despite those months falling after the official fiscal year ends in June.

The report also lists a Veteran Football Tournament held in Peshawar, with no date provided but Rs. 99,000 claimed. Peshawar lies outside the jurisdiction of Upper Chitral's DSO, which has its own district sports office and separate budget. This raises concerns over duplicate or misallocated expenditures.

Events like the Azadi Cup Polo, District Football Tournament, and Jashn-e-Khazan Polo were each allocated a whopping Rs. 300,000, while several football and cricket tournaments received as little as Rs. 20,000–50,000. This suggests biased fund allocation in favor of polo.

The Boroghol Festival allegedly cost Rs. 2 million—about 37% of the entire annual sports budget. Is this amount justified for a single event? There’s no audit trail, documentation, or public breakdown of expenses.

The report shows Rs. 900,000 spent on distributing sports kits throughout the year. But no list of beneficiaries, no photographs, and no proof of distribution is available. Who got the kits?

According to the DSO’s own document, events began in March 2023 and then resumed only in May 2024, skipping a major portion of the active fiscal year (July–June). This irregular timeline doesn’t align with government financial practices and further clouds the report’s credibility.

Budget Breakdown (FY 2023–24):

Total Sports Budget: Rs. 5.45 million

Travel & Transport: Rs. 413,325

Utility Bills: Rs. 634,943

Critical Questions for Authorities:

Why were future events included in a past fiscal report?

Why was 37% of the budget spent on one festival?

Why are events listed outside district jurisdiction?

Why is there no transparency on sports kit distribution?

Why are travel and utility bills consuming so much of the budget?

These inconsistencies scream for an immediate audit of Upper Chitral's sports budget. Fictitious events, inflated costs, and unaccounted-for expenses must not be allowed to go unchecked. The taxpayers deserve transparency, and the youth of Chitral deserve real sports development — not just paperwork.

#AuditDistrictSports #WhereIsTheBudget #DemandTransparency #PublicMoneyMatters #CorruptionInSports #FictionalEvents #BudgetForFutureGames #GhostTournaments #PaperBasedSports #PoloFavouredAgain #NeglectingGrassroots #UnequalSportsFunding #20LakhFestival #KitsButNoTeams #FakeFestivalsRealFunds #InflatedSportsBudget #KikxnowInvestigates #SportsBudgetScandal #MusarratUllahReports #ExposeTheWaste #AuditNow #FixSportsFunding #TaxpayersDeserveBetter #SportsReformKP

Are There Real Sports in Upper Chitral or Just on Paper? A Closer Look

Have you ever wondered if the funds allocated for sports in our country are genuinely being used for the development of sports or if they are just being shown on paper? The 2024-25 report released by the District Sports Office of Upper Chitral raises several questions that need serious attention.

According to the report, Zani Pass Festival, an exciting event, allegedly cost 300,000 rupees, which included activities like a marathon race, tug of war, local sports, and ice hockey. But the question arises: was this large sum justified for just a few events? Moreover, are there any pictures, videos, or reports we can see to verify this expense?

Another curious situation is with the Shandur Ice Hockey event, where only 30,000 rupees were spent. Despite the event being of greater importance compared to other major events, why was such a small budget allocated for it? Similarly, despite expectations of millions being spent on the Paragliding Competition, only 100,000 rupees were spent, and there is no significant coverage or evidence available for this event either.

Now another question arises. The Ice Hockey Culture and Tourism Authority reported spending 2.8 million rupees on the Shandur Ice Hockey event. So why are two separate departments spending on the same event? It is crucial to understand how two departments can allocate such large amounts for the same event simultaneously. If public funds are being used in this manner, how much taxpayers' money is being wasted?

Surprisingly, the Youth Department included the Upper Chitral Symposium 2024 in their report, but did not specify the funds allocated for it. Meanwhile, the same symposium was reported by the Chitral District Sports Office, which listed the associated expenses. Here, two departments are involved with a single event, and their budgets are separate. This contradiction suggests either the departments are working together, or one department's expenses are being included in the other's budget. This raises significant concerns about transparency.

The report claims that a budget of 1.2 million rupees was allocated for promoting sports, but in reality, 1.6 million rupees were spent. If you look closely, most of the funds seem to have been spent on events that either took place in special locations or events whose legitimacy is questionable.

Events like the "Cultural Night" and "Musical Night" saw huge expenditures, while far less money was allocated to children's sports and educational institutions, where events are often underfunded.

All of these incidents beg the question: Is real sports development happening? Or is it just a paperwork exercise where public money is being spent simply to show that "something is happening"? If this is the case, serious reconsideration is needed.

These contradictions and suspicious activities force us to ask: Are our funds being used properly? Public funds should be spent on actual sports development, not on fake events and festivals.

Final Thought: It’s time for us all to demand an independent audit of the sports funds and events in Upper Chitral to understand how taxpayers' money is being spent. We deserve to know if these funds are truly being used for the development of sports or if they are simply being misused for show.

#ChitralSports #SportsTransparency #AuditRequired #ChitralEvents #PublicFunds #SportsIntegrity

Sports Players Undergo Struggles with Finances

Players' situation enjoying different sports camps at the Peshawar Sports Complex is becoming tough because players chosen to play in different sports like hockey, kabaddi, archery, karate, volleyball, and so on in the upcoming National Games are not getting financial support towards their daily charges. These sportsmen, some of whom come from beyond Peshawar, are being accommodated in the hostel of the Sports Directorate but have not been given allowance for their day-to-day eating. They were assured 1500 rupees a day, but the assurance has not been honored, which would have aided them in covering their day-to-day dietary expenses.

Camps for various sports have begun at various times; some had begun on the 8th of April, and others had begun on the 9th and 10th of April. But these players complain that their fundamental needs are not fulfilled. On the one hand, the players complain that they must be provided with the promised daily allowance at the camp so that they can purchase food and other daily requirements. Meanwhile, associations have also been mandated to finance their players' expenses, with the assurance that they will be reimbursed later on. Associations, however, which have been anticipating yearly grants for years and are still waiting, have also encountered financial hardships after only one week of the camp.

This has become quite tough for the players, particularly because most of them are from distant regions and do not have money to spend for their daily requirements. Secondly, the players are tense, as they fear that, similar to past scenarios, they will not get the entire sum, as some players in the past games had some amount deducted from their daily allowances, the same being reflected as savings. Due to the late funds received, players were unable to raise complaints about the issue.

#SportsPlayers #PeshawarCamp #SportsDirectorate #NationalGames #PlayersRights

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Sara Khan Appointed Chairperson of Women's Commission of Pakistan Archery Federation

Peshawar: Sara Khan, a renowned archer and coach from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Women’s Commission of the Pakistan Archery Federation. Her appointment was announced during an executive committee meeting of the federation, which was chaired by Colonel (Retd.) Akram Sadaf. This milestone marks not only a significant achievement for Sara Khan but also a new chapter in the development of sports in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and across the country.

During the meeting, Sara Khan's invaluable contributions to the field of archery were acknowledged, and her appointment was celebrated as a major step towards the development of archery in the province, especially for women athletes. Her leadership is expected to open new doors for the promotion of archery in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and her appointment is seen as a huge success for women in the sport.

Sara Khan has extensive experience in archery, both as a competitor and as a coach. Her passion for the sport and her dedication to its growth have been commendable. Her role as the Chairperson of the Women's Commission is set to not only ensure the growth of archery but also encourage more women to participate in sports across the province.

Colonel (Retd.) Sadaf Akram, President of the Pakistan Archery Federation, expressed his delight at Sara Khan’s appointment, stating, “Sara Khan’s appointment has not only sparked new hope for the sport of archery but will also prove to be a milestone for the development of sports in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It was essential to recognize her contributions and hard work, and today we congratulate her from the bottom of our hearts on assuming this position.”

With Sara Khan at the helm of the Women’s Commission, new pathways for the development of archery in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are expected to emerge. Women athletes will also have access to new opportunities to succeed on the global stage. This appointment is seen as a positive step that will not only inspire women athletes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa but also across Pakistan.

#SaraKhan #WomenInSports #Archery #KPK #WomenEmpowerment #SportsLeadership #Pakistan #ArcheryChampion #SportsDevelopment #KPKWomen

Lack of Sports Facilities in Private Schools of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: A Growing Concern

Peshawar: On January 7, 2025, a formal application was sent to the Private Schools Regulatory Authority (PSRA) requesting detailed information regarding the availability of sports facilities in private educational institutions across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. However, despite the passage of several months, no response has been received to date. As a result, a reminder application was submitted on April 12, 2025, urging the authorities to address the issue of sports infrastructure in schools.

The initial request sought information on several critical aspects, including the number of private schools with dedicated sports grounds, access to government-owned stadiums, available sports facilities within schools (such as gymnasiums, swimming pools, and sports fields), and details of qualified sports teaching staff.

This issue has gained prominence due to the growing concern over the state of physical education in the province’s private schools. Many schools in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa lack proper sports grounds, and those that do have them often face inadequate conditions. Moreover, the availability of sports facilities such as gyms, swimming pools, and indoor complexes remains scarce.

The request also highlighted the urgent need for information on the number of trained and certified sports instructors employed at private schools. The absence of qualified sports teachers is another issue affecting the quality of physical education in these institutions.

Many private schools in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa struggle with a lack of adequate sports infrastructure, which directly impacts the physical development of students. While some schools have access to government sports facilities, the details of these agreements are not made public. Furthermore, the overall quality and quantity of sports amenities within schools are significantly limited.

The lack of trained sports educators is another major concern. It is essential for students to have access to qualified instructors who can guide them in various sports disciplines, contributing to their overall development.

The silence from policy makers regarding this issue has raised concerns among educators and parents alike. Until effective policies are put in place to address the shortage of sports facilities and instructors, there seems to be little hope for significant improvement in the near future.

The information gathered from this request will be pivotal in shaping future policy recommendations for improving sports infrastructure in schools across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This issue deserves immediate attention, as physical education plays a crucial role in the overall development of children and youth. Authorities are urged to act swiftly and provide the necessary information to help move the discussion forward.

#SportsInfrastructure #PrivateSchools #KP #PhysicalEducation #SportsFacilities #YouthDevelopment #EducationReform #KhyberPakhtunkhwa #SportsTeachers #Kikxnow #JournalismForChange

Shangla Sports Budget: Millions Spent, Zero Results?

In Shangla, a deprived district lacking sports facilities, millions of rupees are allocated annually for sports development, yet the results are non-existent. A critical review of the official reports for 2023-24 and 2024-25 reveals that the government's narrative of sports development is confined to paperwork.

The information provided by the District Sports Officer Shangla lacks clear details and omits several crucial points. Eleven events were listed for 2023-24, but there was no mention of the number of participating teams, emerging players, or the total expenditure on these events.

The nature of these events was also questionable—an inter-departmental badminton tournament, four events named after the Deputy Commissioner, and three labeled as "Azadi Cup." Were these merely formalities, or did actual sports take place? The report remains silent on this.

The total budget for 2023-24 was 7,887,757 rupees. Of this, 3,667,030 rupees were spent solely on employee salaries. The operational site saw an expenditure of 4,211,735 rupees, with 3,130,000 rupees allegedly spent on sports events. However, there was no breakdown of which event took place when and how much was spent. These figures raise serious questions about transparency.

The District Sports Office itself is housed in a four-marla building on College Road, Alpurai. On the other hand, a 38-kanal sports ground is under construction in Tehsil Chakesar, but there is no information on its progress or utilization.

Currently, the office has seven employees, while three key positions (a senior clerk and two junior clerks) remain vacant. Is this administrative gap hindering sports development or merely an excuse?

During 2023-24, no national, provincial, or international players emerged from Shangla. Despite spending millions, the absence of a sports star from the region proves that the budget is being used to show expenditure rather than benefit the public.

In the new financial year, nine events were conducted, including two "Azadi Cups." Again, there was no mention of the number of players or expenditure details. 7,008,192 rupees were allocated for salaries and benefits, with 4,469,345 rupees already spent. 4.5 million rupees were allocated for salaries, out of which 2.76 million rupees have been spent.

The operational budget was 2.5 million rupees, with 1.719 million rupees spent. 1.6 million rupees were allocated for sports events, but despite spending 1.2 million rupees, there is no breakdown.

The reports from the District Sports Office Shangla raise more questions than they answer. The vague details, lack of performance, and non-transparent use of the budget necessitate an independent audit. Sports are the future of the youth, but if this budget is being used only on paper, it will not only shatter public trust but also bury the dreams of young people.

#ShanglaSports #BudgetAccountability #SportsAndYouth #TransparencyNeeded #DeprivedDistrict

Lala Ayub Hockey Stadium: From Pride to Polluted Peril

Once the jewel of Pakistan's national and international hockey scene, the Lala Ayub Hockey Stadium in Peshawar now stands as a grim testament to neglect and environmental decay. Situated within the Peshawar Sports Complex, a venue that once echoed with roaring crowds and celebrated sporting triumphs, the stadium is now overshadowed by a steadily growing mountain of garbage, much to the dismay of nearby residents and athletes.

The stark reality hits you even before you enter the stadium grounds. A sprawling heap of discarded pamphlets, plastic bags, milk cartons, and other refuse has accumulated at its front, a festering eyesore that has worsened significantly in recent months, according to stadium staff. They report that trash is regularly dumped and sometimes even burned, casting a pall of toxic fumes and an unbearable stench over the area, all while seemingly ignored by authorities.

"Oh, it's simply dreadful," lamented a lifelong hockey enthusiast and local resident. "It feels like these beautiful grounds are drowning in filth."

Experts voice serious concerns about the potential health consequences of inhaling the smoke from burning waste and the general pollution emanating from the accumulating garbage. "This dumpsite poses a severe threat of air and land pollution to the residents," warned one environmental expert. "It is crucial for the government to act immediately before this escalates into a public health emergency."

The situation is particularly disheartening for the local athletes who frequent the stadium. They fear that the pervasive pollution will deter potential visitors and tarnish the spirit of sports in Peshawar. The once-vibrant atmosphere of the stadium is now tainted by the stench of decay and the unsightly presence of the waste.

Despite numerous complaints and pleas for action, officials at the Sports Directorate appear indifferent to the plight of the residents and players. "It's frustrating. We are all crying out for help, but it feels like no one is listening," shared a resident of the Peshawar Sports Complex, who walks past the garbage pile daily. "We have contacted the Directorate for assistance, but it goes unnoticed."

As the Lala Ayub Hockey Stadium teeters on the brink of becoming a forgotten relic, a swift and decisive response to the mounting concerns is desperately needed. The citizens of Peshawar urge their municipality to address this burgeoning waste crisis that threatens both public health and the dignity of a once-proud sporting structure. Urban spaces should reflect our values, and the people of Peshawar hope that collective action can reclaim the Lala Ayub Hockey Stadium, transforming it back from a pollution hotspot to the vibrant community sports venue it once was. The time to act is now; the citizens of Peshawar, like their athletes, deserve no less.

#LalaAyub #Stadium #Pollution #Garbage #SportsNews #Mojo #MojoSports #Pakistan #KPSports

No Response Yet: RTI Request on ‘1000 Sports Projects’ Still Awaits Action

On 13 January 2025, senior journalist and RTI activist Musarrat Ullah Jan submitted a detailed Right to Information (RTI) request to the Director General, Sports Department, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, seeking transparency and accountability regarding the much-publicized “1000 Sports Projects.” Despite the provincial government's commitment to a Paperless Policy, the department has yet to provide a response.

The request was submitted via email, as per policy, to both [email protected] and [email protected], requesting a wide range of critical information.

🔍 Requested Information Included:

👨‍💼 Employee Breakdown:

Total number of employees in the 1000 Sports Projects

Number of officers

Number of Class-IV staff

💰 Funds Released:

Total funds released in fiscal years 2023–24 and 2024–25

💵 Salary Payments:

Amount paid in salaries for both years

⛽ Fueling Expenses:

Fuel budget allocated in 2023–24 and 2024–25

🚗 Project Vehicles:

Location of the 10 official vehicles assigned to the project

Names of individuals/departments in possession of the vehicles

Related vehicle expenses for both fiscal years

🚨 Silence Raises Concerns

Nearly three months later, there has been no official response, raising serious questions about transparency within the Sports Department. The silence also reflects a possible violation of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Right to Information Act, which mandates timely disclosure of requested information.

Musarrat Ullah Jan has signaled that, if the delay continues, a formal complaint will be submitted to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Commission (KPIC).

No Response Yet: RTI Filed on Khyber District Sports Funds Still Ignored

Another RTI (Right to Information) request filed on March 19, 2025, seeking transparency regarding sports-related funds and activities in District Khyber, remains unanswered despite the provincial Paperless Policy and legal obligation under the KP RTI Act.

The request was addressed to both the District Sports Officer, Khyber, and the Directorate of Merged Areas Sports, demanding details for the fiscal years 2023–24 and 2024–25 regarding:

Funds – Allocated, utilized, remaining amounts, and projects financed

Tournaments – Complete list, number of players, payments made, and players' progress to provincial/national levels

Office Expenditures – Rent, utilities, equipment purchases with prices

Staff Details – Names, designations, date of appointments, and salaries

Musarrat Ullah Jan requested this information be shared via email under the government's Paperless Policy. Despite clear guidelines, no response has been issued, raising further concerns of possible mismanagement or concealment.

He is expected to file a formal complaint with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information

Lack of Transparency? Sports Directorate FATA Silent on RTI Request

A formal request under the Right to Information (RTI) Act submitted on March 20, 2025, to the Directorate of Sports for Merged Districts (FATA) has gone unanswered, raising serious questions about transparency in public institutions.

Senior journalist and sports reporter Musarrat Ullah Jan sought details of training camps, participating players, event expenditures, and distributed sports gear under the department's supervision. Despite the legal obligation to respond within the specified time, the Directorate has yet to reply.

The RTI request asked for:

Names of sports in which training camps were held

District-wise distribution of camps and number of participants

Full list of players and coaches

Daily Allowance (DA) amounts and total funds allocated

Details of five sports events and participants

Record of shoes, kits, and socks provided to athletes with district-wise data

Musarrat Ullah Jan expressed concern that such silence becomes even more troubling in light of recent human smuggling and fake athlete visa scandals involving the provincial sports departments.

He urged the authorities to provide the requested information without delay, warning that failure to do so may result in a formal complaint with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Commission (KPIC) or legal action.

Mysterious Players, Missing Budget: Karak Sports Office’s Data Raises Eyebrows

The District Sports Office Karak has responded to a Right to Information (RTI) request regarding its budget, player development, and event management — but the data raises more questions than it answers.

According to the official reply, the office claimed to have produced 14 players across various sports in 2023–24, including cricket, football, futsal, volleyball, weightlifting, and karate. However, no names, levels of representation (district, provincial, or national), or supporting documents were provided.

Most notably, the budget allocation for the financial year 2024–25 was not disclosed, yet the office claimed it had already utilized Rs. 5.57 million. This contradiction raises serious concerns about transparency and financial oversight.

In terms of sports events, the office claimed to have organized 15 events in 2023–24, while 29 events are listed for 2024–25 — nearly double. Again, no event breakdowns, locations, participant lists, or visual evidence were provided.

The RTI also revealed a change in the number of permanent staff (21 in 2023–24, reduced to 20 in 2024–25), and a small increase in sports associations (from 3 to 4), but without any background or affiliation details.

This partial disclosure points to serious lapses in accountability and raises doubts about the authenticity of both the expenditures and reported activities.

A formal follow-up RTI has now been submitted to the Directorate General of Sports, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, seeking full transparency, including audit reports, player identification, and complete financial details.

#KarakSportsScandal

#WhereAreThePlayers

#GhostEventsExposed

#SportsFundsAudit

#RTIRevealsTruth

#AccountabilityInSports

#KPKSports

#DistrictSportsUnderQuestion

#FakeFiguresRealMoney

#TransparencyMatters

#YouthDeserveBetter

#KarakNeedsAnswers

#JournalismForChange

#SportsCorruption

#PublicMoneyPublicRight

Crafting the Ground, One Pitch at a Time

His true domain was the pitch. And pitch-making, as anyone in cricket knows, is an art form that blends science, instinct, and hours of manual labor. Tariq Lala mastered that art. With time, he became the soul of the Arbab Niaz Stadium, shaping pitches that hosted countless national and international matches.

Players, curators, and fans often remember seeing him quietly tending the ground, rain or shine. His photographs with cricketers like Shahid Afridi and West Indian greats still circulate online — a testament to the many legends who played on the pitches he prepared.

Even the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recognized his talent, briefly engaging him for his expertise. Though he remained mostly with KP’s sports department, his skills were acknowledged on a national level.

Tariq Lala was a simple, quiet man — always found working behind the scenes. Cricket was not just a job for him; it was his life. While others counted trophies and records, he counted perfect bounces, cracks in the surface, and the satisfaction of a well-balanced pitch.

His entire life revolved around the ground. His dedication was unmatched — a silent craftsman creating the foundation for every cricketer’s performance.

Behind this hard-working man was a humble home. He was a father to two daughters and one son. Tragically, he passed away just a month before his daughter’s wedding — a heartbreaking moment for the family and those who knew him. It was a loss that added a layer of sorrow to what should have been a joyous occasion.

Now that Tariq Lala is no longer with us, it becomes a moral responsibility of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sports Directorate to support his family. Men like him — silent workers, devoted professionals — form the backbone of our sporting success, and they deserve dignity in life and beyond.

Tariq Lala wasn’t just a groundsman. He was a guardian of the game, a mentor in his own right, and a true servant of cricket. His honesty, simplicity, and commitment are lessons for the younger generation. May Allah grant him the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous, and may his legacy live on in every pitch that carries his touch. Ameen.

#kikxnow #sports #kpk #kp #tariqlala #funds #dc #sportsdirectorate #pakistangames #musarratullah #fawadalishah

Revamping or Redundancy? Pakistan Sports Board's Urgent Letter Resurfaces After a Year

A letter issued by the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) dated 27th May 2024, marked as "MOST URGENT", has once again come under the spotlight in April 2025, raising eyebrows across the sports community and government departments.

The letter, signed by Deputy Director General (Tech), Muhammad Shahid, was addressed to 21 top national institutions including PIA, WAPDA, HEC, Railways, FBR, Armed Forces, Civil Aviation, and major public banks. It directed these bodies to submit detailed information by 28th May 2024 on:

Year-wise budget allocations for sports

List of sports disciplines being revived by each department

Number of sportspersons employed, along with their names and job status (contractual or permanent)

The letter claimed these steps were in line with the Prime Minister’s vision for reviving sports in Pakistan and labeled the exercise as a critical move toward structural reform and promotion of sports.

But Why Is This Letter Back in 2025?

Nearly a year after its issuance, the letter is now being circulated again, which raises serious concerns about whether any real implementation took place — or whether the letter was simply a paper formality.

What makes this situation even more ironic is that many of the institutions addressed in the letter have already shut down their sports departments or stopped hiring sportspersons altogether. So what was the point of asking for such data?

The timing is also suspect. Why is a letter from May 2024 being taken seriously only now in April 2025?

If the goal was to assess and restructure sports governance in the country, why haven’t we seen any tangible progress in the past year? Are we just pushing papers and pretending reform is happening?

There seems to be no follow-up mechanism, no published reports, and no concrete steps taken based on the data supposedly collected.

The real question is this:

Can we really improve Pakistan's sports future by circulating letters — or do we need ground-level change, transparency, and accountability in our sports institutions?

Until that happens, such urgent letters may make noise but will not make a difference.

#SportsScandalPK #FakeSponsorshipLetters #HumanSmugglingThroughSports #PakistanSportsCrisis #ReformSportsNow #SportsCorruption #KPKSportsScandal #AthletesOrActors #VisaFraudInSports #AccountabilityInSports

Human Smuggling Scandal: Security Agencies Step In, JIT to Begin Probe Next Week

Peshawar: Security agencies have swung into action over an attempt to acquire New Zealand visas through forged sponsorship letters and fake claims of being squash players. According to sources, suspicion is growing over the involvement of certain individuals within the Directorate of Sports, and officials are expected to begin questioning several people in the coming days. The investigation is reportedly expanding in scope.

Sources reveal that security personnel have met with individuals directly or indirectly linked to the matter, particularly those associated with squash or the Directorate itself. It has been confirmed that a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) is likely to formally initiate an inquiry next week, which could include both government officials and private individuals in the investigation.

The inquiry will not be limited to forged letters alone. Investigators will also examine whether the Directorate of Sports has any internal mechanisms to prevent such fraudulent activities — and if they exist, why they failed. Sources state that the issue is not only tarnishing the image of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa but also damaging Pakistan’s credibility in the international sports arena. Authorities aim to conclude the investigation as swiftly and transparently as possible.

The case came to light when, on February 7, 2025, the New Zealand consulate received a sponsorship letter purportedly from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Directorate General of Sports. The letter claimed that five squash players and two officials were being sent to participate in the New Zealand Junior Squash Championship, with the DG Sports covering all expenses.

It further stated that Manager Muhammad Bilal and Coach Kaleemullah were permanent employees of the Directorate. However, upon verification, it was revealed that the official whose signature appeared on the letter — Khalid Mehmood, the former Director General — had left the position in November 2023. The letter was declared a forgery, a fact later confirmed in writing by Mr. Mehmood himself.

The matter is now in the hands of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). Khalid Mehmood has officially requested an inquiry and asked that any misuse of his signature be thoroughly investigated and prevented.

According to reports, the New Zealand consulate had contacted the Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) for verification, leading to the exposure of the fraud. The PSF subsequently issued a formal alert to all embassies, advising them to verify player credentials directly through the federation before processing any applications.

Meanwhile, internal sources suggest that some individuals within the Directorate may be directly involved in this attempted scam. Security personnel are currently meeting with key figures and asking questions related to the case.

#Kikxnow #SportsScandal #PeshawarInvestigation #FakeVisaScam #SquashFraud #DGsportsKP #JITonSports #PeshawarComplex #BreakingNews #MasarratUllahJanReports #DawnInvestigation #SportsCorruption

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