Srinagar hotelier files complaint over Rs 51 lakh unpaid dues by IHPL
Srinagar: A prominent Kashmiri hotelier has filed a complaint against the organisers of the Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL) — a Modi regime-backed cricket tournament that ended in chaos last week — over unpaid dues amounting to Rs 51 lakh.
According to Kashmir Media Service, police have registered a case after the IHPL collapsed amid serious allegations of mismanagement and non-payment to players, officials, and service providers.
Businessman and hotelier Mushtaq Chaya, owner of the Radisson Collection Hotel Srinagar, said that despite repeated assurances, the organisers have failed to clear the outstanding amount for accommodation and related services. “We have approached the police, and legal proceedings have been initiated. The police have informed us they are in touch with the organisers” Chaya said.
He added that the tournament, initially projected as a positive event to promote sports and tourism in Kashmir, turned into a major embarrassment after the organisers “ruined their own credibility” and left without paying vendors, hoteliers, and others.
The Indian Heaven Premier League, which began on October 25 at Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar, featured eight teams and included international players such as Chris Gayle. It was inaugurated by Sports Minister Satish Sharma and organised by a Mohali-based group called the Yuva Society.
The event, scheduled to conclude on November 8, ended abruptly after players refused to take the field over unpaid dues and allegations of poor management. Chaos ensued when hotel staff informed players and officials that the organisers had fled without settling their bills. Staff members said that repeated calls to the organisers went unanswered as their phones were found switched off.
