Paralympics gold-medalist Harvinder Singh alleges ‘discrimination’ in sports awards after Khel Ratna snub

Paralympic gold medalist archer Harvinder Singh has raised concerns about potential discrimination in sports awards after his name was not included in the list of recommendations for the prestigious Khel Ratna award. While a spokesperson for the sports ministry has clarified that the list is not yet finalized, the absence of double Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker from the initial list, which only included men's hockey player Hamanpreet Singh and Paralympic gold-winning high jumper Praveen Kumar, has sparked controversy.

Harvinder, who made history by securing India's first-ever Paralympic gold medal in archery in Paris, questioned why different standards seemed to be applied to different athletes when their achievements were equally impressive. His achievements include winning a medal in the same sport at the Tokyo Games three years prior.

“Tokyo 2020 Paralympic gold medallists were awarded Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, but what about Paris 2024 Paralympic gold medallists? Same competition, same gold, same pride, why not same award? Singh wrote on X.

"Discrimination in sports”Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Gold medalists were awarded by Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, but what about Paris 2024 Paralympic Gold medalists? Same Competition, Same Gold, same pride, why not same award? #KhelRatnaAward" @PMOIndia @PTI_News @ANI @

— Harvinder Singh (Archery) (@ArcherHarvinder) December 24, 2024

Harvinder Singh emerged victorious in the men's individual recurve open event at Invalides, defeating Poland's Lukasz Ciszek 6-0 in a dominant final to secure the top position.

Harvinder Singh's journey has been marked by resilience and determination since facing adversity at just over a year old. Contracting dengue at a young age, he underwent treatment that unfortunately resulted in the loss of function in his legs.

The awards selection committee, led by retired Supreme Court judge Justice V Ramasubramanian, includes esteemed individuals such as former women's hockey captain Rani Rampal, boxer Vijender Singh, and cricket legend Anil Kumble. The committee is responsible for evaluating applications and has the authority to consider names not included in the initial list.

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