Concerns Over Cleanliness at IG Stadium During India Open, Danish Player Raises Alarm

New Delhi: The ongoing India Open Super-750 Badminton Championship at Indira Gandhi Stadium has come under scrutiny due to complaints about dirt and mismanagement. Danish player Mia Blichfeld expressed concern over the lack of improvement since last year, urging the Badminton World Federation (BWF) to ensure better venue conditions ahead of major tournaments.

The championship, running until January 18, features 256 players from 20 countries. Another Danish player revealed via social media that he had skipped the India Open for three consecutive years due to Delhi’s severe pollution and hopes conditions improve for the World Championships.

An inspection of the stadium revealed significant cleanliness issues. From the galleries to the VIP entry stairs, reporters observed trash, spit tobacco stains, dirty floor tiles, and foul odors near washrooms and the media lounge. Exposed electrical wires and open MCB boxes raised safety concerns.

Addressing the issue, Sanjay Mishra, General Secretary of the Badminton Association of India (BAI), stated that daily cleaning is carried out and efforts are underway to improve the situation. Some stray dogs were removed in coordination with MCD, but more work remains. He acknowledged that lingering stains, including spit tobacco marks, persist despite repeated cleaning.

Mishra added that the stadium hosts multiple events, making it difficult to maintain perfection at all times. He emphasized that the remaining issues will be addressed before the World Badminton Championships, assuring players and spectators of improved conditions.