Star Indian shooter Manu Bhaker is likely to be considered for the Khel Ratna award after reports suggested that her name is set to be included in the final list of nominations for the prestigious award.
Bhaker, who won a historic double bronze at the Paris Olympics this year, did not feature in the initial list of nominations for the Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award, sparking criticism from all quarters. Sports ministry officials said that she never applied for it, while sources close to her family dismissed the claim.
With Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya set to take a call on the matter, the controversy seems to be heading for an amicable conclusion. A ministry official was quoted as saying, “This is not the final list, there is a process involved".
Her father Ramkishan Bhaker had earlier criticised the selection committee for the apparent snub, saying “what is the point of winning medals when you have to beg for awards”. He coach Jaspal Rana had added that the snub has affected her morale.
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Manu Bhaker broke her silence on the matter yesterday, when she admitted that there might have been a lapse on her part while filing the nomination. The 22-year-old took to social media to clarify her position, saying, “Irrespective of the award I shall remain motivated to win more medals for my country. It is a request to everyone, please do not speculate on this."
She won the bronze in the 10m air pistol individual and 10m air pistol mixed team (with Sarabjot Singh) events in Paris. She became the first Indian female athlete to win two medals in a single edition.
Men's hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh and Paralympic gold-winning high jumper Praveen Kumar have been shortlisted for the Khel Ratna award, along with 30 Arjuna awardees, with 17 of them from para disciplines.
The awards selection committee, which is headed by retired Supreme Court judge Justice V. Ramasubramanian, includes former women's hockey captain Rani Rampal, boxer Vijender Singh, and cricket legend Anil Kumble among others.