The operation of the Noida Indoor Stadium, built at a cost of approximately ₹101 crore to provide world-class sports facilities to athletes, is now embroiled in controversy. The Security Solutions Company, which won the 15-year contract to operate the stadium, has been accused of violating tender conditions, submitting forged documents, and operating without the necessary permissions. A private organization has filed a complaint with the Noida Authority regarding this matter.
According to the complaint, the company cited the names and experience of several renowned athletes to obtain the tender. These include boxer Vijender Singh and former cricketer R.P. Singh, among others. It is alleged that the athletes who were shown as 30 percent shareholders in the company and whose experience certificates were used to secure the tender are no longer associated with the company. This has raised questions about the entire tender process.
The company has no experience in running a stadium.
It is also alleged that the experience letter submitted by the company during the tender is questionable. The complainants claim that the company lacked the necessary experience in stadium operations and allegedly obtained the tender based on forged documents. The company operating the stadium is also accused of leasing the gym inside the stadium to another company and charging rent, even though the tender conditions did not specify any provision for such operation or subletting the gym to any other agency.
No Fire NOC
One aspect of the matter is that the indoor stadium regularly hosts sports competitions, major events, and player practices. Despite this, a fire NOC has not yet been obtained for the stadium. Consequently, there is a fear of a major accident in the event of a fire.
What action has the Noida Authority taken?
After the entire matter came to light, Noida Authority CEO Krishna Karunesh directed officials from the relevant department to investigate. The preliminary investigation has revealed violations of the terms of the tender. The Authority will now issue a notice to the concerned company and seek a response. If the company’s response is found to be unsatisfactory, further action will be taken against it as per the rules. At present, Noida Authority is conducting a detailed investigation into the entire matter and further decision will be taken on the basis of the investigation report.