**Bhubaneswar: ** In view of the Men’s Hockey World Cup 2018 slated to be hosted by Odisha from November 28 to December 16 at Kalinga Stadium here, Odisha Sports Department has written to the Excise Department to issue liquor license for Kalinga Stadium during the period.
In his letter dated 31.5.2018 written to the Excise Commissioner, Sports Commissioner-cum-Secretary Vishal Kumar Dev has mentioned, “Liquor/Beer will be served in the VIP Lounge for the officials/delegates of International Hockey Federation (FIH) and Hockey Federations of the participating nations at Kalinga Stadium.”
“It is requested that Liquor license may be issued in favour of Department of Sports & Youth Services from 27th November till 16th December 2018 over the premises at Kalinga Stadium. Necessary documentation required for the purpose may please be intimated for further needful action,” the letter states.
Notably, top 16 Hockey Nations of the world will participate in this highest ranking Hockey extravaganza, organized once every four years.
As the issue has sparked off controversy, Odisha Sports Secretary Vishal Kumar Dev in his media reactions has stated that it would be served in the VIP Lounge and only to the officials and delegates of International Hockey Federation and Hockey Federations of the participating nations.
He also reportedly added that liquor serving at international events like Hockey World Cup is nothing new.
He also reportedly clarified that the thing served in the restricted area is not hard liquor, only beer and wine.
He also reportedly made it clear that the liquor is not being sponsored by Odisha Government even though it is the host.
**Also Read:** [Tourists To Be Served Odia Cuisine As ‘Raja’ Gift At Bhubaneswar Airport](https://www.ommcomnews.com/public/tourists-to-be-served-odia-cuisine-as-raja-gift-at-bhubaneswar-airport)
**Also Read:** [Brave Women Save Youth From Crocodile Attack In Odisha](https://www.ommcomnews.com/public/brave-women-save-youth-from-crocodile-attack-in-odisha)
