Hockey Jersey – BJD Criticises Alleged Colour Change of Indian Hockey Team Kit
Hockey Jersey – The political debate over the reported change in the Indian hockey team’s jersey colour has intensified, with the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) accusing both the Odisha government and the Centre of interfering with a symbol closely associated with the country’s sporting history. Party leaders argued that preserving the team’s long-standing identity should remain a priority over altering its traditional appearance.
BJD Questions Reported Jersey Colour Change
Speaking to reporters on Friday, BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty criticised the BJP-led governments in Odisha and at the Centre over reports that the Indian hockey team’s jersey colour had been shifted from blue to saffron, also described by some as orange. He described the development as disappointing and said the move had raised concerns among those who closely follow Indian hockey.
Responding to arguments that saffron represents one of the colours in the Indian national flag, Mohanty maintained that blue also carries deep national significance. He pointed out that the blue Ashoka Chakra at the centre of the tricolour is an important national symbol and said this aspect had already been highlighted by former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
Allegations Against State and Central Governments
Mohanty further alleged that political influence had been exerted to bring about the reported jersey change. According to him, the Odisha government and the Union government had placed pressure on the concerned sports authorities to introduce the new colour scheme.
He argued that administrative efforts should instead focus on strengthening the sport and supporting athletes rather than making changes to an identity that has remained closely linked with Indian hockey for many years.
Odisha’s Role in Supporting Indian Hockey
The BJD spokesperson also highlighted the previous Odisha government’s contribution to Indian hockey under the leadership of Naveen Patnaik. He recalled that when the sport was facing challenges, the state government extended substantial financial assistance, invested in world-class infrastructure, introduced modern training facilities and provided consistent institutional support.
Mohanty said these initiatives helped create an environment in which Hockey India and its players could concentrate on improving their performances. He also referred to India’s success at the Olympic Games, stating that the strengthened support system played an important role in the team’s achievements on the international stage.
According to him, Odisha’s decision to sponsor Indian hockey for a decade offered long-term stability and demonstrated a sustained commitment to the growth of the sport.
Focus Should Remain on Performance, Says BJD
Expressing concern over the reported decision, Mohanty said discussions should revolve around maintaining and improving the standard of Indian hockey instead of changing the team’s traditional colours. He argued that preserving sporting excellence and supporting players should take precedence over altering visual symbols associated with the national team.
The BJD maintained that the legacy built through years of investment, player development and international success should remain the central focus of policymakers and sports administrators.
Naveen Patnaik Defends the Blue Jersey
A day earlier, BJD president and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had also voiced strong opposition to the reported jersey change through a public statement. He said the blue jersey has accompanied Indian men’s and women’s hockey teams through victories, defeats and memorable achievements, including Olympic medal-winning performances.
Patnaik emphasised that the colour blue draws its significance from the Ashoka Chakra featured on the Indian national flag and represents national pride. He compared India’s blue jersey with internationally recognised sporting identities such as Argentina’s iconic striped football kit and Brazil’s famous yellow jersey, arguing that such colours become inseparable from a nation’s sporting heritage.
He further stated that altering this long-standing identity would weaken a legacy that has united sports fans across generations, adding that national symbols should inspire unity rather than become subjects of political disagreement.