Bashir Hussain Azad | Chitral Today
CHITRAL: The President of Chitral Polo Association, Shahzada Sikandar Ul Mulk, has called on the government to hold separate matches between civil and forces teams in the upcoming polo tournament.
He was of the view that this would ensure fair competition and highlight the talent of civilian players who pursue the sport with personal resources and limited support.
Speaking at a press conference alongside senior association members and team captains from across the district, he announced that a separate toss for civil teams will take place on May 19, even if the administration does not approve. He said the civilian pool would proceed independently.
He criticized the administration for its unsupportive attitude, pointing out that forces teams like Chitral Scouts, Police, and Levies have better facilities and trained horses, making fair competition with civilian teams impossible. He also highlighted the lack of government assistance such as horse allowances and injury support.
Shahzada Sikandar expressed regret over a recent meeting at the Chitral Scouts office where Levies players allegedly misbehaved with polo association representatives. Despite tensions, he confirmed the association will not boycott the Inter-District or Shandur Festival tournaments.
He also criticized the poor state of Chitral Polo Ground, noting that despite spending Rs17 million, there is still no water supply or caretaker.
He urged the commissioner Malakand and chief secretary KP to meet their longstanding demands, saying that supporting pol, an expensive yet culturally vital sport, would also benefit tourism in the region.