Basketball tragedy: Report sought on sanctioned MPLADS works for Lakhan Majra stadium in Rohtak

The Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation has sought a report from State Nodal Agency (SNA)-Haryana in connection with the sanctioned MPLADS works for Lakhan Majra village stadium in Rohtak, where national-level basketball player Hardik Rathee (16) died on November 25 after a rusted basketball pole collapsed on him during practice.

Yashwant Kumar, Deputy Director of the MPLADS Division, conveyed this information to Rohtak MP Deepender Singh Hooda in response to his letter highlighting the issue.

The MP had, on December 5, written to the Lok Sabha Secretariat alleging a breach of privilege and contempt of the House claiming that sanctioned MPLADS works for the reconstruction of the Lakhan Majra Stadium were not implemented and that the negligence contributed to the tragic death of the young player.

In the latter, Deepender claimed that recommendations for two works made by him under MPLADS for the complete reconstruction of the stadium were not accorded administrative approval by the state government. He also urged the government to take appropriate action against the officials and authorities responsible for that.

Acting on the letter, the ministry verified both recommended works through the e-Sakshi portal and found that both had been sanctioned by DRDA-Rohtak. The first work, costing Rs 12.30 lakh, was recommended by the MP on September 27, 2023, and sanctioned by the IDA on November 9, 2023. The second work, costing Rs 6.20 lakh, was recommended on June 18, 2025, and sanctioned on June 26, 2025. However, no payment or funds for these works have been released as on date.

The ministry informed the MP that it has sought a factual report from SNA-Haryana. As per telephonic discussion, it has been learned that the file regarding the factual report is under submission with the district authorities. The report will be shared with the Lok Sabha Secretariat in due course.

Confirming the development, Deepender Hooda said it should be determined whether this is a case of negligence or a deliberate conspiracy, and that the government must investigate the matter thoroughly.