Dr K A Paul criticises political leaders for prioritising foreign sports stars over domestic athletes, calling for enhanced support, infrastructure, and opportunities for India’s youth and sports talent.
New Delhi | 13 December 2025
International peace advocate and social activist Dr K A Paul has sparked national debate by criticising Indian political leaders and governments for what he called the excessive glorification of foreign sports icons at the expense of domestic athletes and youth development.
In a widely shared video statement, Dr Paul raised concerns about the political and financial arrangements made for Argentine football star Lionel Messi’s visit to India, highlighting reports of lavish spending and special protocols while Indian players continue to face inadequate facilities. He described such prioritisation as “a national misstep that undermines our future.”
Dr Paul specifically criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for travelling to Hyderabad on a special flight to meet Messi and questioned the West Bengal government’s plan to install a statue of the footballer at a cost of ₹18 crore. He also targeted Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, stating that foreign athletes were being “worshipped” while promises for education and youth programs remain unfulfilled.
“Why allocate hundreds of crores to celebrate one foreign footballer when our own athletes struggle for basic resources?” Dr Paul asked. He stressed that India must focus on investing in domestic talent to compete internationally, citing China, Russia, and the United States as examples of nations winning dozens of Olympic medals through robust sports infrastructure and athlete development programs.
Dr Paul also criticised the trend of erecting statues for foreign sports figures, suggesting that such recognition should be reserved for national icons like Mahatma Gandhi, Dr B R Ambedkar, or Mother Teresa. He termed the political spectacle surrounding Messi’s visit as “demeaning and disproportionate,” arguing that it lowers the standards of public leadership.
Reflecting on his past initiatives, Dr Paul recalled hosting global sports figures such as Evander Holyfield and Mahesh Bhupathi in India during the 1990s, which aimed to inspire Indian youth rather than divert public funds or attention from domestic priorities.
He further questioned incomplete financial commitments to institutions like Osmania University, highlighting that unfulfilled promises and “fake agreements” harm the nation’s future and erode public trust. “Where is the money that was promised? Has it been delivered?” he asked.
Ending his statement, Dr K A Paul called for systemic reforms and urged citizens to demand accountability from political leaders. “Our focus must be on our players, our youth, and our country’s future. Real change is necessary, and together we can make it happen,” he said, appealing to the public to widely share his message.
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