NEW DELHI: After the outraged protests, reality has sunk in. Indian champion wrestler Bajrang Punia will likely change his mind about moving court over being ignored by the Sports Ministry for the Khel Ratna 2018 despite having amongst the highest points and achievements across sports in top world events.
On Thursday, the 24-year-old Punia was accompanied by his mentor Yogeshwar Dutt to meet Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Rathore over the controversy to plead his case to no avail.
day later, he had threatened to take the legal route to get justice if the minister’s reply wasn’t favourable.
However, in a not so surprising U-turn, following Dutt’s advice, Punia has decided to concentrate on preparing for the World Championships next month since a potential court case could affect his morale and form going into the marquee event with not much time left as well.
“It was injustice to Bajrang as he deserved the Khel Ratna this year. We met the Sports Minister yesterday (Friday) and he said he will talk to the selection committee. But I have advised Bajrang against going to the court as it will hamper his World Championship preparations,” Dutt was quoted as saying to PTI.
“The minister met Bajrang and wanted to know his grievances. He explained to Bajrang why his name was not considered. Even though he has promised Bajrang to look into the matter, it is unlikely that any changes will be made,” a source in the Sports Ministry on the condition of anonymity told the news agency.
