The opposition attacked the Meghalaya government for using the artificial turf and surrounding athletics track for the celebrations of the state golden jubilee in January.
For the 50th anniversary celebrations, the official function saw a huge stage erected on the turf and canopy erected all around.
Vehicles were parked on the artificial grass and tyre marks were seen on the pitch and a large crane was stationed on the track.
Moving a cut motion, Mawsynram MLA Himalaya Shangpliang described the use of sports facilities in this way as sad" as a lot of money had been invested in them for the use of athletes.
“The government could have used another ground or organised the event in another place,” he said while inquiring about the expenditure incurred for the programme and the name of the event managers.
In response, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said that the event was held at the ground only after consultation with the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Deputy Commissioner and sports associations.
“Repair work has been done and it has been handed over and the games can start any time there,” Tynsong said. Facts on the ground appear to contradict him, though, as the JN Stadium has been closed to sports events as the ground is undergoing extensive renovations.
