Should Cricket Organisers Cover Police Security Costs in Gujarat?
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Synopsis
In a groundbreaking decision, the Gujarat Home Department has mandated that cricket tournament organisers cover police deployment costs during matches. This new policy aims to formalize expense recovery for security services, setting a precedent for future events. Discover how this move impacts Gujarat's status as a cricketing hub and the financial responsibilities of the organizers.
Key Takeaways
- Cricket organisers in Gujarat must now pay for police security.
- Fees are set at Rs 25 lakh for Tests and ODIs, Rs 10 lakh for T20s.
- Late payments will incur interest penalties.
- The policy aims to formalize cost recovery for security services.
- Gujarat is a key destination for cricket tournaments in India.
Gandhinagar, July 7 (NationPress) The Gujarat Home Department has announced that cricket tournament organisers, including the ICC, BCCI, and IPL franchises, must now finance police security during matches.
This decision follows the absence of a structured approach to recouping expenses, even with the consistent and extensive police presence at cricket events throughout the state.
According to the new guideline, a standardized fee schedule has been established. Organisers will be required to pay Rs 25 lakh for Test and One Day Internationals, while T20 matches will incur a security charge of Rs 10 lakh. These fees will encompass security measures both inside the stadium and around its perimeter, including provisions for food packets and drinking water for police personnel, along with the establishment of control rooms when necessary.
In cases where enhanced security is essential, such as during VIP attendance or specific threat alerts, costs could rise by as much as 25 percent.
The police will continue to provide essential technical equipment such as scanners, barricades, and metal detectors. Organisers must ensure full payment within one month following the event.
Non-compliance will lead to interest penalties in accordance with current government financial regulations. This policy aims to formalize the recovery of costs for policing services at significant sporting events and may serve as a model for similar initiatives in other states, especially given the increasing concerns regarding resource allocation for large-scale events.
Gujarat has become a pivotal location for major cricket tournaments in India, hosting a variety of international and domestic matches, including Test matches, One Day Internationals (ODIs), T20s, and the Indian Premier League (IPL).
The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, recognized as the largest cricket stadium globally, stands as the state's premier venue and has hosted landmark events such as the 2023 ICC World Cup Final, IPL playoffs, and high-profile matches between India and Pakistan.
Other venues, including the Sardar Patel Stadium (Motera) and the Reliance Stadium in Vadodara, have also hosted domestic Ranji Trophy games and women's cricket matches. The Gujarat Titans, the state's IPL franchise, has attracted substantial crowds and enthusiasm since its inception in 2022, consistently bringing IPL matches to the region.
With its robust cricketing infrastructure and passionate fanbase, Gujarat has become a significant destination for BCCI and ICC event planning, frequently necessitating large-scale police and civic body deployments to address security and logistical needs.
Point of View
I believe this policy reflects a necessary evolution in the management of security for large-scale sporting events. By placing the financial responsibility on organisers, the Gujarat government is ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently, while also setting a precedent for future arrangements in other states. This decision is crucial as we strive for accountability in the management of public safety during high-profile events.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has the Gujarat Home Department implemented this policy?
The Gujarat Home Department has implemented this policy to establish a formal mechanism for recovering expenses related to police deployment at cricket events, ensuring that organisers take financial responsibility for security.
What are the security fees for different types of matches?
Organisers must pay Rs 25 lakh for Test and One Day Internationals, while T20 matches will incur a fee of Rs 10 lakh.
What happens if organisers fail to pay on time?
Failure to make the required payment within one month will result in interest penalties according to government financial norms.
How does this policy affect the future of cricket in Gujarat?
This policy is expected to set a precedent for similar arrangements in other states, enhancing accountability and resource allocation during cricket events.
What is the significance of the Narendra Modi Stadium?
The Narendra Modi Stadium is the largest cricket stadium in the world and has hosted significant events, making it a premier venue for cricket in Gujarat.
