**Bhubaneswar:** Even as the world of sports has gone gaga over the successful conduct of Odisha Men’s Hockey World Cup, a section of Odisha’s political leadership is raising eyebrows over the expenses incurred in the ritzy affairs.
However, the Hockey India has dismissed some remarks which took on the State Government for the extravagant celebrations at Bhubaneswar and Cuttack to mark the launch of Odisha Men’s Hockey World Cup 2018.
In a tweet posted today, Hockey India stated, “Would like to thank all who have supported us for love of Hockey. In response to some mischievous media reports, we clarify, that the opening ceremony in BBSR and celebrations in Cuttack are financially supported by sponsors of Hockey India and not by Govt. of Odisha.”
It is believed that Hockey India’s statement was a prompt response to Odisha BJP leader Lekhashri Samantsinghar’s tweet, in which she mentioned about the emolument Salman Khan charged for the Cuttack show. She also used a couple of unparliamentarily words against the State Government and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
BJD leaders have taken a strong exception on Samantsinghar’s tweet and demanded an unconditional apology on this issue.
“We demand her apology for insulting the State, the Chief Minister and Biju Babu. Her immaturity and spite on the success of the show are clearly reflected through this derogatory tweet. She has portrayed the Odisha in a bad light for political reasons,” a senior BJD leaders said.
“Instead of joining the people in celebrating success of Odisha you are trying to demean the State before an international audience,” the BJD leader added.
