DHAKA, FEB 13 (V7N) – The Taekwondo arena in Bangladesh is currently passing through a severe crisis, as allegations of administrative arbitrariness, favoritism and lack of transparency overshadow the development of the sport. Stakeholders claim that personal interests have taken precedence over the promotion and proper management of this promising discipline.

Serious concerns have been raised regarding the organization of the National Taekwondo Competition 2025–26. According to multiple sports organizers and athletes, the event was conducted with unusual secrecy and selective communication. Instead of officially notifying all districts and registered clubs as per regulations, invitation letters were reportedly sent only to a few favored districts.

It has also been alleged that the tournament’s technical committee meeting was held discreetly and that General Secretary Lt. Ershadul Haque appointed footballer Hasanuzzaman Bablu as the chairman of the tournament committee, a decision that has sparked widespread criticism within the sports community.

As a result, several strong and medal-winning districts, including Comilla, Chattogram, Gazipur and Rajshahi, were reportedly deprived of participation opportunities. Sports analysts say such exclusion undermines merit-based competition and goes against the core spirit of sportsmanship.

Athletes have further expressed frustration over conditions in the training camp for the 14th South Asian Games, where allegations of deprivation of basic player rights have surfaced. Sources claim that funds allocated for daily allowances and nutrition were not properly utilized, forcing many athletes to bear their own expenses to maintain adequate diet and fitness. Complaints have also emerged regarding inadequate medical support, low-quality jerseys and equipment, and a general lack of professional athlete welfare measures.

Particularly concerning are claims of insensitive treatment toward female athletes, including the absence of necessary support for health-related needs, which has reportedly affected morale and performance.

Another major issue highlighted by sports insiders is the appointment of allegedly unqualified and controversial coaching staff. Experts warn that the absence of licensed and technically competent coaches increases the risk of injuries and hampers modern training standards.

Critics within the sports fraternity have also alleged the rise of nepotism and a culture of favoritism within the federation’s current ad hoc structure. Some organizers have accused federation officials of prioritizing personal and financial interests over the long-term development of Taekwondo in the country.

Players and stakeholders have questioned the rationale behind appointing a football figure to head a Taekwondo tournament committee, arguing that technical expertise and sport-specific qualifications should be the primary criteria for such leadership roles.

Amid the growing controversy, athletes and sports organizers are now demanding immediate intervention from the National Sports Council. They have called for a transparent investigation and the formation of a competent and accountable leadership structure to restore discipline, fairness and credibility in Bangladesh’s Taekwondo sector.

END/ZK