Manu Bhaker Excluded from Khel Ratna Award List; Family Alleges Conspiracy

India shooting sensation Manu Bhaker, who returned with two medals from the Paris Olympics 2024, has found herself missing from the exclusive list of Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. This has riled up many, but notably the family, questioning the decision-making process.

The Khel Ratna Award is India’s highest sporting honor, with this year’s nominations including Indian men’s hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh and para-athlete Praveen Kumar. However, the absence of Bhaker's name, despite her historic achievements, has raised eyebrows.

Ministry Claims No Application Received, Family Refutes

Sports Ministry has maintained that the applications should come from the sportsperson. Officials said that Manu Bhaker didn't even submit an application for her name to come under the consideration list, though she strongly denied that too. Her father Ramkishan Bhaker said, "We have submitted the application. Still, the committee didn't take action against us. If it happens this way for athletes to seek appreciation then why compete at the Olympics?

He further criticized the process by questioning whether this was a way to encourage young athletes. "Parents should think twice before motivating their children to pursue sports when such treatment awaits them," he added.

A Historic Achievement

Bhaker was just 22 years old when she made history by becoming the first Indian athlete to win two medals in a single Olympic Games after Independence. She clinched bronze in the 10m Air Pistol and another bronze in the 10m Mixed Team with Sarabjot Singh.