The Nepal National and International Athletes' Association has said that the recent dispute between the National Sports Council (Rakhep) and the Nepal Olympic Committee (NOC) has once again drawn serious attention to the possibility of athletes being killed.

Denoting that the association has repeatedly pointed out the fact that the institutional and leadership disputes in Nepali sports have a direct impact on the players, the association said through a statement, 'The situation that has arisen once again has increased the possibility of directly affecting the rights, opportunities and future of the players.'

It is stated in the statement that it is a common responsibility of all parties to ensure the participation of athletes in international competitions and the latest developments will increase the risk of not being able to participate in international competitions including the 20th Asian Games.

The association has urged all the concerned youth and sports ministry, Rakhep, NOC and national associations to realize their respective responsibilities and immediately create an environment that ensures the participation of the players.