Under this government things will change for good in the field of sports in Bengal: Ashoke Dinda

It was a routine Wednesday morning for Ashoke Dinda as he arrived at the Bidhan Sabha Bhawan. Dressed in a checked full-sleeve shirt and grey trousers, the former India pacer stepped out of his Mahindra Scorpio surrounded by security personnel. The 42-year-old has been flooded with congratulatory messages after retaining the Moyna Assembly constituency seat for a second consecutive term in the Assembly elections. Over the past few days, Dinda has been at the centre of political discussions, with many considering him a strong contender for the role of Sports Minister in Bengal. Other prominent names reportedly in contention include former India hockey goalkeeper Bharath Chettri, who won from Kalimpong, along with Tapas Roy, Sourav Sikdar, and Rakesh Tiwary.

Despite his packed schedule, the former Team India speedster spoke exclusively to Revsportz about his emotions after being re-elected, the reasons behind his entry into politics, the shortcomings he believes that exist in Bengal’s sports ecosystem, and his vision for the development of sports in the state if entrusted with greater responsibility.

What does this victory mean to you?

Ashoke Dinda: First of all, when I used to play cricket, I took pride in representing my country and state. In politics too, I am here for the common people. That is why I joined politics. But sports and politics are very different. I joined politics in 2021 after stepping away from sports. Being in the opposition felt like a punishment. The way we were treated, we felt humiliated. It was a very difficult phase. But now things are different. The BJP is coming into power, and the atmosphere is much more positive. Hopefully, we will be able to do meaningful work for the people of Bengal.

Do you have a blueprint to develop sports in Bengal if given an opportunity?

Ashoke Dinda: Yes, I do. I have spent 27 years in sports. Places like Eden Gardens are part of my journey. I understand the system and the challenges. One of my biggest concerns is that Bengal hasn’t produced Olympic-level athletes as it should have. That needs to change. There is a lot of talent in Bengal. What’s lacking is opportunity, infrastructure, and proper coaching. We need to build all of that. We need to work closely with players, develop sports at the grassroots level, and encourage young people to participate. Under this government things will change for good in the field of sports. When a player from Bengal wins a medal for India, that will bring true joy.

Do you think now there will be better co-ordination between the centre and state?

Ashoke Dinda: There were opportunities earlier too, but they weren’t taken. For example, there was a major sports project worth ₹200 crore that other states accepted, but Bengal did not. I raised this issue in the assembly with proof. Now, with better coordination between the centre and the state, I believe implementation will be smoother and more effective.

Looking back now, do you think it was the right decision to leave cricket in 2021 and enter politics?

Ashoke Dinda: Yes, I believe it was absolutely the right decision. The people of Moyna have given me immense love. They treat me like their own—like a son, brother, or elder. Even though I couldn’t give them much, I shared every moment with them—their happiness, their sorrow, festivals, everything. I was always there with them. That’s why I’ve received so much love, and I’m grateful for it. My parents, my wife, my child, and my entire family supported me. The people of Moyna stand firmly behind me.

Which is tougher to handle — bowling on the cricket pitch or navigating the political arena?

Ashoke Dinda: That’s a difficult question to answer. I come from a sports background, not politics. Representing India was a matter of pride. But politics is also about serving people, living among them, and helping them. It’s a blessing, a gift from God. Not everyone gets this opportunity. Many people have wealth, but they don’t get the chance to serve. Helping someone get hospital care, supporting families who can’t afford medicines—that is something truly meaningful.

As part of the ruling side now, what changes do you plan to bring with the added responsibilities?

Ashoke Dinda: I’ve said this before—the situation has changed. In sports, the result isn’t decided until the last ball. Similarly, in 2021, the result wasn’t final until the last vote was counted. I remember that day clearly. Around 4 pm, TV channels were saying I had lost, but I knew I had won. I finally received my certificate late at night. That night was intense—I was surrounded and threatened. I was told I would be killed and thrown into the river. But I wasn’t afraid. I stood my ground and left with my certificate. I believe in hard work, in myself, and in the support of the people. Those who do wrong, I will not spare them.

Have you received any calls or messages from your former teammates?

Ashoke Dinda: Yes, I received many calls and messages. Sourav Ganguly called me. I also got calls from many friends I played with—Stuart Binny, Abhimanyu Mukund, Saurabh Tiwary, and others. I received congratulations and blessings from many people in the cricketing fraternity.

What is your message to the sporting fraternity in Bengal?

Come forward and play. Whoever has an interest in sports should pursue it. The government will work on building infrastructure. Get ready—tie your laces, stay fit, and be prepared. We need a fit and active India.

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