Olympic Medalist Manu Bhaker Addresses Khel Ratna Award Controversy

The 22-year-old shooting star Manu Bhaker absence from the prestigious award's shortlist sparked controversy in sports circles. Bhaker, who created history at the Paris Olympics with two bronze medals, took to social media to address the controversy and suggested there might have been an oversight from her side during the nomination filing process.

Ministry's Response

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has clarified that the list of awardees hasn't been finalized yet which appears to be a damage control measure,. This statement comes amid growing criticism over the exclusion of one of India's most successful young athletes from the country's highest sporting honor Khel Ratna Awards list.

Family's Emotional Response

Manu's father, Ram Kishan Bhaker revealed deep disappointment over the initial exclusion of his daughter's name . He shared that the young Olympian had expressed regret about pursuing sports, highlighting the emotional impact of the controversy on the athlete who made history by becoming India's first double medalist in a single Olympics.

Despite the uncertainty, hopes remain high that Manu's name will be included in the final list for the Khel Ratna Award, a recognition she truly deserves, following the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports' statement that the list has not been finalized yet.