BAI president responds to unprecedented monkey mayhem at India Open 2026: 'Next time they come, give bananas'
Badminton Association of India (BAI) president Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed the animal‑related incidents that disrupted the India Open 2026, turning the event into headlines for all the wrong reasons.
Badminton Association of India (BAI) president Himanta Biswa Sarma broke his silence on the unprecedented animal-related issues, including the monkey trouble that made headlines during the India Open 2026 in Delhi.
The 2026 India Open was marred by unusual interruptions, with matches delayed due to pigeons pooping on the court and even a monkey spotted among the spectators, turning the badminton tournament into a spectacle for all the wrong reasons.
The pigeon incident happened during Indian veteran HS Prannoy's match against Singapore's Loh Kean Yew.
'Next time the monkeys come, give them bananas'
Speaking to The Indian Express, Assam CM Himanta explained that they cannot touch monkeys due to India's wildlife act and suggested handing them bananas if they come during matches next time.
More from Badminton News"There is nothing we can do to wipe out the monkeys from Delhi. We can’t touch monkeys as per the Wildlife Act of India. What is the problem if a monkey comes to watch a game? Next time, if the monkeys come, give them bananas.
"Players have to wait if a monkey comes. The game should stop for two minutes, it is their natural habitat," the Assam CM said.
BAI president downplays any concern
The BAI's mismanagement was heavily called out during the 2026 India Open, with overseas participants and fans raising concerns over the event's preparation.
However, the BAI president went on to dismiss any concerns regarding the animal-related issues, pointing out that the BWF awarded them by receiving hosting rights for two more tournaments after the 2026 India Open.
“BWF awarded us two more tournaments after that. So, I don’t think it is a big issue,” Himanta added.
India will host the BWF Badminton World Championships, a Grade 1 individual tournament, from August 17. The tournament would return to the nation after a 17‑year gap.
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