SAI orders review of regional centres

New Delhi: The Sports of Authority of India on Tuesday said it will “go for a performance review of all its regional centres” following men’s hockey coach Harendra Singh’s complaint about sub-standard food and lack of hygiene at its Bengaluru facility.

Harendra had said that insects and hair were found in the food served to the national campers at Bengaluru, who are currently preparing for the Champions Trophy.

“We are deeply concerned about the quality of food and hygiene in the SAI centres and give it the highest priority. The problem in Bengaluru has come to notice earlier during the minister’s (Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore) visit in March this year,” SAI director general Neelam Kapur said in a statement on Tuesday.

“Orders have been issued to take corrective action which includes hiring a new cook, ensuring quality of raw food supply and improving hygiene.”

The SAI-DG also called an urgent meeting of the regional heads.

“Regional directors will be accountable to ensure quality food and hygiene. Monitoring systems are being put in place including surprise checks. Strict action will be taken on any complaints received,” Kapur added.

Harendra on Monday had expressed serious concern over quality of food and hygiene at the SAI South Centre, Bangalore filing a written complaint to Hockey India.