Madan Singh Bhat

Youth leader and sports analyst 

Savitra Bhandari (Samba), the captain of the Nepali National Women's Football Team and the pride of the country, is currently facing the toughest struggle of her life. She who constantly gives 100 percent for the country on the field is today forced to appeal for public assistance for treatment due to serious injuries.

But this is not just a personal pain, it is a serious question on the nation's sports system.

Savitra has a severe injury to her ACL graft and MCL in her knee and requires complex surgery again. She was earlier treated at a top-level hospital, Aspetar, Qatar, from where she made a successful comeback and returned to the field. But this time the situation is different.

Why did the captain of the national team, who has represented countries from Israel to France, ask for help from the general public to raise medical expenses today? Is this the responsibility of the players only?

The Nepal Football Association (NFA) managed the treatment in the past. But this time it has been informed that administrative support cannot be provided. Despite the offer of cash assistance, the entire process has to be done by the players themselves.

Who will guarantee the health and safety of the players who play with the national flag?

The responsibility of the nation

When a player represents a country at the international level, he carries the honor of the nation, not just the club. In case of serious injury, the concerned association and the government should take all the responsibility of the treatment.

If the captain of the national team has to make a public appeal to raise $80,000, what will happen to the young players of tomorrow? Sports policy, health insurance system, emergency treatment fund, if all these structures are limited to paper, what is the meaning?

Role of government and stakeholders

The Government of Nepal, the National Sports Council and related associations should establish a long-term athlete protection fund.

• Full health insurance and emergency treatment fund for national and international players.

• Guarantee of high standard of treatment and facility of treatment abroad if required.

• Ensure respect and employment of players Long-term employment or social security after injury or return from international play.

• Structural policies and transparency ensure clear procedures, financial and administrative support between associations and players.

When athletes sweat for the country, the nation should take responsibility to secure their future.

Policy change is needed rather than emotional support

It's easy to show empathy on social media. But unless policies and structures are reformed, such incidents will recur.

Savitra Bhandari is struggling today, but this struggle has given rise to a huge debate whether the national players will extend their hands for healing or the nation will hold their hands?

What is needed today is not only financial support, but also a clear policy commitment.

Athletes like Savitra have made the country proud. Now the time has come for the nation to ensure their safety and respect. They may be tired, but they are not defeated. With the support of the nation, she will return to the field again in Nepal's jersey.