Former ANFA Chief Ganesh Thapa Steps In to Fund Striker Sabitra Bhandari's Treatment Amidst FA Inaction

Former President of the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA), Ganesh Thapa, has initiated personal efforts for the treatment of national women's football team striker Sabitra Bhandari, widely known as 'Samba'. Thapa has also announced an immediate financial contribution of NPR 50,000 from his side, citing ANFA's alleged negligence in Samba's treatment.

Writing a post on the social media platform Facebook, he claimed that even if ANFA steps aside, Samba's treatment will proceed, and he vowed to ensure her return to the field. Thapa revealed that about a week ago, Samba called him to inform him that ANFA was unable to cover her treatment costs. Expressing that Samba's complaint and her social media status deeply moved him, he reassured her not to worry, stating that all Nepalis stand with Samba.

Thapa stated that following Samba's call, he personally requested the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Finance, and Home Affairs to initiate efforts for her treatment, enclosing Samba's letter. Based on this request, the Minister of Foreign Affairs summoned the Qatari Ambassador to his office and formally requested treatment for Samba in writing, Thapa informed. Thapa also thanked the Minister, who reportedly informed him about this development via telephone.

Thapa strongly criticized ANFA for failing to even make basic diplomatic efforts when a crucial national team player is injured and requires treatment. He expressed astonishment that ANFA did not coordinate with the state mechanism even for the treatment of its own player.