Female football players returning home after participating in the domestic professional league in India have reported challenging travel conditions, highlighting issues related to inadequate allowances and lack of official support. Players from Suruchi Sangha Club in Kolkata, who competed in the Second Division of the National Women’s League, shared their difficulties following a lengthy two-day journey by train.

According to the athletes, they were provided a travel allowance of only 125 rupees per day for the entire duration of their rail journey. The players expressed frustration on social media, emphasizing that the amount was insufficient to cover even basic food expenses such as biscuits or snacks during the trip. “How can one survive on such a small sum?” one player reportedly questioned, pointing to the broader issue of insufficient support.

Beyond concerns about food, players also raised safety issues, noting the absence of any club officials accompanying the team during the travel. They argued that if the club’s budget only allowed for a minimal travel stipend, at least one official should have traveled with the squad to monitor conditions and address any difficulties faced en route. The lack of supervision also reportedly contributed to further logistical challenges. Some players mentioned that tickets for four members of the team were not confirmed until just before departure.

The team’s management, when approached for clarification, indicated that the 125-rupee allowance per day was the standard expense allocation for the journey. However, this justification did not satisfy the athletes, who called for more comprehensive arrangements to ensure their well-being and security during such extended travels.

This situation highlights wider concerns about the support structures in place for women athletes in India’s growing sports leagues, underscoring the need for better infrastructure and administrative oversight to safeguard players’ health and safety.