Dutee Chand alleges KIIT and KISS of neglecting Odia athletes

In a shocking revelation, renowned athlete and Olympian Dutee Chand has openly expressed her resentment, accusing KIIT and KISS in Bhubaneswar of spreading false claims regarding player development. 

According to Dutee, the institutions are importing some players from outside the state and showcasing them under their own banner, thereby depriving talented Odia athletes of opportunities.

The star sprinter emphasized that tribal students studying at KISS are not receiving the attention they deserve. Dutee further said that if proper importance were given to Odia athletes, they could have brought national and international recognition by now. She alleged that systemic neglect is denying many Odia athletes their rightful opportunities.

Furthermore, Dutee pointed out that the number of players from outside Odisha has increased significantly in KIIT, surpassing those from the state. The sprinter alleged that the institution producing players is a complete lie. She also said that the institutions are merely offering encouragement, not actively training or developing athletes.

"KIIT is a big institution, and I am also a student of this institution. I have got all kinds of opportunities here. Players from outside the state at KIIT are more in number. Some good players from outside the state are being imported, and they are showcased under the banner of KIIT. I don't know why Odisha players are not given opportunities. Odisha players have talent. However, they are not provided proper opportunities," said Dutee.

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"When players outside the state perform well, they are given monetary assistance. As a result, they study here and play for Odisha. I don't think Odisha players are provided proper scope and opportunities. Had they been provided proper scope, half of the KISS students would have been national and international medalists. I feel that there are some shortcomings," she added.

When approached for comments about Dutee's statement, the Public Relations Officer of KIIT said they were unaware of these allegations and would respond only after reviewing the complete details.