Indian shooter Manu Bhaker, who made history by securing two bronze medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics, finds herself at the center of a controversy following her exclusion from the initial list of nominees for the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. This unexpected omission has sparked discussions among sports enthusiasts and raised questions about the nomination process.
Reports emerged on December 23, 2024, indicating that Bhaker’s name was absent from the list of athletes shortlisted for the Khel Ratna Award. Given her remarkable performance in Paris, where she became the first Indian athlete to win two medals in a single Olympic event, many anticipated her inclusion in the honors list. The initial shortlist reportedly featured hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh and para-athlete Praveen Kumar.
In response to the reports, Bhaker’s family expressed their disappointment. Her father, Ramkishan Bhaker, voiced his concerns, questioning the value placed on Olympic achievements in India. He remarked, “If one has to spread one’s hands for honor, then what is the use of winning a medal for the country.” This sentiment reflects the family’s frustration over the perceived oversight.
Amidst the growing controversy, the Sports Ministry clarified that the final list of awardees has not yet been determined. A senior official stated that the selection process is ongoing and that the names will be revealed within a week. The official also mentioned that Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya is expected to make a decision shortly, suggesting that Bhaker’s name could still be included in the final list.
Adding complexity to the situation, there were claims that Bhaker had not submitted an application for the Khel Ratna Award. However, her family refuted these assertions, maintaining that all necessary procedures were followed. In a recent statement, Bhaker herself acknowledged a possible lapse on her part during the nomination process, stating, “There has been a lapse maybe on my part.” Despite this, she emphasized that her primary focus remains on performing for the country, indicating that awards are secondary to her commitment to the sport.
The Khel Ratna Award, being India’s highest sporting honor, holds significant prestige. The selection committee, led by former Supreme Court Justice V Ramasubramaniam, comprises 12 members responsible for evaluating candidates based on their performances and contributions to sports. Under the current guidelines, athletes can self-nominate, and the committee also has the authority to consider individuals who may not have applied.
As the sports community awaits the final announcement, the situation underscores the importance of transparency and communication in the awards selection process. Bhaker’s achievements at the Paris Olympics have already cemented her status as a trailblazer in Indian sports, and the forthcoming decisions will further reflect on the recognition of athletic excellence in the country.
