India can host sporting events like the Indian Premier League (IPL), Indian Super League (ISL) or Pro-kabaddi league this year but sans spectators. Minister of state for sports and youth affairs Kiren Rijiju on Thursday during a webinar with The New Indian Express expressed the possibility of the country hosting sporting events despite the difficult times due to the coronavirus pandemic.The minister was in conversation with TNIE editorial director Prabhu Chawla and senior journalist Kaveree Bamzai. "As of now, because of the situation due to the Covid-19 pandemic, our priority is health and safety of the players and the citizens. As and when the situation becomes normal, we would like to see sporting events back on the ground. Right now...sporting events can be held in this situation without spectators. We have already permitted sports activities across stadia and complexes," the minister said.Speaking exclusively on the possibility of the IPL, ISL and Pro-Kabaddi League this year, Rijiju reiterated, "We can have sporting activities this year but minus spectators."Expressing his views on the recent infighting in the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) between two of its prominent office-bearers — president Narinder Batra and secretary-general Rajeev Mehta — the minister asserted difference of opinion should not impact sports and the sportspersons in a negative way.