Kathmandu: Nepal’s prominent wushu players Deepak Hamal and Shiva Silwal’s participation in the Asia Cup Wushu in China, scheduled from July 2-7, has become uncertain due to government’s apathy toward paying their expenses incurred during the third  Taolu Wushu World Cup 2024 held in Yokohama, Japan.

“Our registrations won’t be accepted until the due amount for Japan is paid. The deadline for registration will end on Thursday,” said Deepak at a press conference in Kathmandu on Wednesday.   

A payment of $5000 is due from Nepali team. 

Nepali wushu players including Deepak Hamal, Bijay Sinjali, Pasang Sherpa, Rajib Tamang, and Nima Gharti Magar had participated in the international event held from October 23 to 27, 2024. Bijay Sinjali earned a historic bronze medal for Nepal. They had earned a place in the global event after competing at the International Wushu Invitation Tournament in Jiangyin, China.

“Despite a commitment from the National Sports Council (NSC) to cover food and accomodation costs in Japan, Minister for Youth and Sports Teju Lal Chaudhary abruptly halted the reimbursement process without explanation,” said Hamal. 

“We met with Minister Chaudhary to express our concern. But he said it doesn’t matter to me whether you go to play abroad or not. Ask the people who sent you,” Hamal said. 

Minister Chaudhary’s harsh reaction is believed to be his dispute with Nepal Olympic Committee (NOC) and the existence of two Nepal Wushu Federations – one recognised nationally by NSC and Ministry of Youth and Sports and the other recognised internationally by NOC and International Wushu Federation. 

The wushu players were sent for participation in Japan by the internationally recognised Wushu Federation which is not recognised by the Ministry. The high ranking officials of the NSC among others had bade farewell to the wushu team.    

Minister Chaudhary refused to admit that he forcefully stopped the payments. Rather it was a system. “They should have taken the amount before they went for the competition. Whoever took the players for participation should be held responsible,” said Chaudhary.   

“This kind of treatment pushes national players to the brink and discourages future talents,” said Hamal. “We call on all Nepalis to stand with us in demanding justice.”