Harvinder Singh, an Indian archer who won gold at the Paris Paralympics, claimed “discrimination” in the awarding of sporting medals.
Harvinder Singh, an Indian archer who won gold at the Paris Paralympics, accused “discrimination” in the distribution of sports medals on Tuesday, questioning why the Khel Ratna distinction was not awarded on this year’s medalists at the Games, as it was in Tokyo. Singh, a bronze medalist at the Tokyo Games, won his first gold medal in Paris, defeating Poland’s Lukasz Ciszek 6-0 in the final. “Discrimination in sports,” Singh posted on X.”The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award was given to Paralympic gold medalists in Tokyo 2020, but what about those in Paris 2024? “Same competition, same gold, same pride—why not the same award?” Following India’s gold medal success in the 2021 Tokyo Paralympics, shooter Avani Lekhara, javelin thrower Sumit Antil, and shuttler Pramod Bhagat were awarded the Khel Ratna, along with Olympic champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra.
“In the year 2021, all Olympic medal winners and Paralympic gold medal winners were honoured with the Khel Ratna, and it is truly inspiring to see the government continue to recognize the immense contributions of our athletes,” tweeted national archery coach and Dronacharya awardee Jiwanjot Singh Teja.”However, I understand that the policy may have now changed, which brings me to request your kind attention towards Mr. Harvinder Singh’s exceptional achievements.” Jiwanjot listed his ward’s accomplishments: “Mr. Harvinder Singh earned the first-ever individual gold medal at the Paris Paralympics, as well as a fourth-place result in the recurve mixed team event. His historic achievement of earning India’s first solo bronze medal at the 2021 Paralympics has already elevated him among the country’s elite athletes.
“In addition, he is the only archer who has won gold at the 2018 Para Asian Games and bronze at the 2022 edition. These victories demonstrate not just his dedication and talent, but also the pride he has brought to India’s para-sports community.
“I kindly request that you consider Mr. Harvinder Singh for the Khel Ratna Award, as recognizing his efforts will undoubtedly inspire countless other athletes and further enhance India’s standing in the international sports community.”
