Social activist Dr. K A Paul criticises excessive attention and public spending on foreign sports stars, urging political leaders to prioritise domestic athletes, youth, and long-term sports infrastructure.
New Delhi | 13 December 2025
International peace advocate and social activist Dr. K A Paul has stirred national debate by sharply criticising Indian political leaders for what he calls the disproportionate focus on foreign sports icons, such as Lionel Messi, at the expense of domestic athletes and youth development.
In a widely shared video statement, Dr. Paul questioned the government’s financial and administrative priorities in hosting Argentine football superstar Messi, alleging that Indian sportspersons and students are being overlooked. He described the elaborate arrangements and reported public expenditure as “a national misstep.”
Highlighting specific incidents, Dr. Paul noted that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi reportedly flew on a special plane to meet Messi in Hyderabad. He also condemned the West Bengal government for planning an 18-crore statue in the footballer’s honour and accused Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy of prioritising foreign athletes while failing to deliver on funding promises for local educational and sports institutions.
“Why are hundreds of crores being spent on glorifying a foreign footballer when our own players struggle for basic facilities?” Dr. Paul questioned. Emphasising the need for domestic investment, he pointed to countries like China, Russia, and the United States, which consistently secure 50–100 Olympic medals by building robust sports infrastructure and nurturing talent from the grassroots.
Dr. Paul also criticised the trend of erecting statues for international athletes, arguing that such honours should be reserved for national icons like Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, or Mother Teresa. He described the political enthusiasm surrounding Messi’s visit as excessive and degrading, stating, “Indian politicians have lowered their standards by elevating a sports celebrity to divine status.”
Recalling his own initiatives from the 1990s, Dr. Paul highlighted events where he hosted international sports figures such as Evander Holyfield and Mahesh Bhupathi in India. These events, he said, were intended to motivate young Indians rather than divert public resources from domestic priorities.
Dr. Paul also raised concerns over “unfulfilled agreements” and incomplete financial commitments to institutions like Osmania University, claiming these practices undermine India’s future and weaken public trust. “Where is the promised funding? Has it truly been disbursed?” he asked.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. K A Paul urged systemic reform and called on citizens to demand accountability from their leaders. “Our focus must be on domestic teams, our youth, and our nation’s future. Real change is required, and together we can achieve it,” he said, encouraging people to share his message widely.
