Three-Member Investigation Committee Formed Over Gandaki Province Sports Medal Controversy

The Ministry has formed a three-member investigation committee following a controversy regarding the distribution of sports medals by the Gandaki Province Sports Council. Chaired by Ministry Secretary Dr. Shesh Narayan Paudel, the committee will study whether the medal distribution aligns with the Medal Distribution Act and related laws. Due to disputes over medal recommendations, the committee is expected to submit its report by August 14.

The committee was established in response to the dispute concerning the sports medals distributed by the Gandaki Province Sports Council. After the medals were announced on July 15, the Province Minister for Social Development, Youth, and Sports, Rekha Gurung, appointed the investigation committee led by Secretary Paudel. The committee also includes Deputy Secretary Ghanshyam Paudel and Officer Narayan Prasad Bastola as members.

Chairman Paudel stated, “On behalf of the ministry, I am heading this investigation committee. We will review the medal distribution according to the Act and legal provisions and submit our report by August 14.” On July 15, the Gandaki Province Sports Council honored six athletes, coaches, and four sports associations with the ‘Gandaki Province Sports Medal’ at a special ceremony held at the Pokhara Stadium.

However, controversy arose after medals were awarded to even the members of the selection committee. Keshav Pathak, a sports journalist who received a medal, is a member of the medal recommendation committee and has previously served as a member and acting secretary of the Council. Member Secretary Sridhar Sharma of the Province Sports Council stated that the medals were distributed in accordance with proper procedures.