Manu Bhaker's father speaks up on Khel Ratna snub, "she deserves the award"
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Indian shooting star Manu Bhaker, who made history at the Paris Olympics by securing two medals in a single edition, finds herself at the center of a controversy after reportedly being excluded from the 2024 Khel Ratna award shortlist.
This omission has sparked disappointment among her supporters and her father, Ram Kishan Bhaker, who voiced his concerns in an exclusive interview.
Speaking to NDTV, Ram Kishan, currently overseas due to his work in the Merchant Navy, expressed disbelief over the reports, stating, "This cannot happen. The news has not been officially confirmed yet."
Highlighting Manu's historic achievements, he questioned the bureaucratic processes surrounding the award. "Manu has created history with double Olympic medals. Does one need to apply for recognition of such feats? This controversy is tarnishing the reputation of the Sports Ministry and the government," he remarked.
Manu, attending PV Sindhu's wedding in Hyderabad, reportedly shared her frustration with her father. "Papa, I think I deserve it. But it’s for the countrymen, the Sports Ministry, and the government to decide," she told him.
Her father added, "She is upset. She said, 'This shouldn’t happen. I don’t understand who is behind this and why.'”
Despite the disappointment, Manu remains focused on her career. After taking a short vacation, she has resumed training and is gearing up for national trials and international events, including the World Cup in March 2025.
Ram Kishan expressed optimism that the decision could be rectified. "There are good people in the Sports Ministry. I am confident that this mistake will be corrected, and the message sent to the nation will be a positive one."