Why Bajrang Punia Is Right To Question His Khel Ratna Snub

Do you think it's unfair?

India’s Commonwealth Games 2018 gold medallist wrestler Bajrang Punia is not happy with the Khel Ratna snub and he has every reason to be. The 24-year-old wrestler has been consistent of late, winning medals and rising in the sport. According to the current criteria, he has 80 points, the second-highest alongside women wrestler Vinesh Phogat. Still Indian cricket team’s skipper Virat Kohli and world champion Mirabai Chanu were picked ahead of him.

Though the current point system which gives points on the basis of performance in World, Commonwealth, Asian Games and Olympics makes it unfair for cricketers, Punia’s achievements cannot be ignored.

Miffed with the decision, the Arjuna awardee told reporters,

“I’m hurt for not being recognised for my talent and performances, I don’t know what was the criteria of selection for this award. Anyone can see my record. I have performed consistently for my country. I don’t know what else is there to be done.”

Now, the Haryana wrestler has pinned his hopes on Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Rathore, he said,

“I tried calling Rathore sir’s number (Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore), but he didn’t even reply back. I’m going to meet him in person to enquire about the matter. Now my hopes are pinned on Rathore as I believe I am one of the eligible candidates for the award.”

Here’s how Twitterati reacted to the news:

Hard-hitting response

Virat hater spotted

Point to be noted

Is BCCI really behind this?

Even Olympic bronze medallist Vijender Singh opposed it

We can visualise this already

Regionalism?

Cricket is the most popular sport in India, just saying.

On a lighter note

ALSO READ: BJP-Congress Twitter Battle Over Kedar Jadhav’s Bowling Action Is Unmissable

However, Punia did not mean to belittle the achievements of other athletes. He congratulated them for the award but asked for a more ‘transparent process’. Also, he threatened to move to court if he doesn’t get justice.

ALSO WATCH: 

×Close
×Close