Despite achieving a good amount of success in the recently concluded Deaflympics in Turkey, the Indian contingent were left unwelcomed on their return to the country, the disappointed contingent which consisted of 46 members chose to not leave the airport as a mark of protest.
The Indian team created history just recently in the Deaflympics, clinching five medals which is a record for the country in the event.
The contingent of 46 athletes and support staff were reportedly said to be very unhappy with the sports ministry for the ignorance towards the team and have also threatened to return the medals if they are not not given proper support and attention, according to a media statement.
Ketan Shah who had accompanied the team as project officer told Sportskeeda, ” It’s extremely disappointing to see the turnout for the event. Our athletes were celebrated there (Turkey) and we personally emailed the Sports Minister Vijay Goel and DG SAI to tell them that we are coming. However, no one replied.”
After making the country proud in the recently concluded event in Turkey, winning five medals, that also included a gold, the athletes definitely expected the fans to come and celebrate with them. “We presumed that they will turn up, but upon landing we realised it was a completely different story.
It’s quite disappointing as this is our best ever finish including a gold medal. Tell me one thing? We celebrated our Paralympians and Olympians, but why can’t we do the same for these guys, that are at the same level.”
It is indeed a sorry sight to see these athletes getting no attention from the government as well as the public and such things doesn’t portray a bright future for Indian athletics.