Para-athlete H.N. Girisha right in approaching the courts to get Sania Mirza’s Khel Ratna stopped?
Sania Mirza
Sania has perhaps done more for Indian sports, especially tennis, than most from her generation. There’s hardly a grand slam that is not in her pocket; and while no one denies that Sania Mirza is one of the top contenders for the most coveted sports awards, the Khel Ratna, in the country, para-athlete H.N. Girisha raised a few points and challenged Sania’s nomination in the Karnataka High Court.
Girisha, a Paralympic Games medalist, has said that he is a more deserving candidate as he had far more points (90) than Sania in the performance-based points system. While the matter will be decided by the courts, we ask eminent sportspersons and experts their views.
V.V.S. Laxman, Former Test cricketer
Awards are a by-product of what you have achieved for the country and it is unfortunate that this claim for the top award has landed in court. Whenever a player is picked, those who are left out feel that they are more deserving but I feel one should always be a sport, accept the situation and move on, hoping for the better next time.”
Ashwini Nachappa, Former India athlete
I have been following it (the issue) for some time and this is not right. These sportspersons approach the court and then they get the award. It has been happening with all the sports awards and for sometime. It is definitely not good for the sport. I personally feel that the government should do something.
Ayaz Memon, Cricket writer
It’s unfair. Someone has got an award and you decide to take out a stay order from the High Court... it’s an unhealthy sign among the sports fraternity. There is only one award, and if there are 10 people for it, the ones left behind are going to disapprove or feel disappointed. Yes, you can always voice your opinion, but issuing an order is taking it to the extreme.
V. Baskaran, Olympic gold medal winning hockey captain
Para-athlete Girisha was left with no option but to take the legal route in support of his claim. He knows his credentials and it is now up to the government to give an answer. Any award should be given with dignity and not through hassles. The government should realise this and streamline the awards process so that transparency is maintained.
( Source : deccan chronicle )
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