Haryana minister calls for halting award returns amidst wrestling federation tensions
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Haryana's Home Minister, Anil Vij, has expressed a strong stance against the practice of returning awards, emphasising the need to cease such tactics.
His comments came in response to wrestler Vinesh Phogat's decision to return her Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award and Arjuna Award, following earlier actions by wrestler Bajrang Punia, who returned his Padma Shri.
Vij highlighted the importance of acknowledging the accomplishments of athletes, saying, "These tactics of returning awards should be stopped. The players have earned these awards. Their awards cannot be taken back by whichever organisation they are issued... The awards honour our nation and they should not think of returning it."
The wrestling scenario in India has undergone significant upheaval following the conclusion of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) elections last week.
Sanjay Singh, an aide to former WFI Chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, emerged victorious as the new president. However, this election outcome led to a wave of disappointment among wrestlers who had been actively protesting against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
Amid the emotional aftermath of Sanjay Singh's win, wrestler Sakshi Malik announced her retirement from wrestling during a press conference in the national capital. The situation further escalated when the Union Sports Ministry suspended the newly elected WFI body.
The turn of events continued as Vinesh Phogat announced her decision to return her Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award and Arjuna Award, reflecting the tumultuous circumstances within the wrestling community.
Haryana's Chief Minister, Manohar Lal Khattar, intervened, advising players to focus more on their sporting endeavors rather than being embroiled in association-related controversies. Khattar highlighted the political dimensions entangling the issue and urged acceptance of the democratic election process.