Imphal, July 10: In connection with the controversy over the alleged sidelining of Manipuri weightlifter Laishram Monika from sending to Beijing Olympics in favour of another player by the Indian Weightlifting Federation, Sports Minister N Biren Singh has today called on Union Sports Minister MS Gill to discuss the issue.

During the meeting, the Union Sports Minister has reportedly given the assurance of doing the needful.

Talking to The Sangai Express from New Delhi, where he is presently staying, Biren informed that he called on the Union Sports Minister at around 10.45 am today and discussed the issue related to sidelining of Monika from participating in the Beijing Olympics.

During the meeting, the Union Minister gave his assurance of giving necessary instruction to the Federation in this regard, Biren disclosed.

Biren further conveyed that the Union Minister had also given the assurance of releasing the required fund for the proposed construction of one mini-sports stadium each in Churachandpur, Tamenglong, Bishnupur and Ukhrul district after consulting with the DoNER Ministry soon.

As for the proposal of setting up 4400 playgrounds in villages under Panchayat Yuva Khel programme, the Union Minister assured that it would be reviewed in the light that fact that Manipur has more hill areas than plan.