Boxer Gaurav Bidhuri Joins Tania in Critique of Delhi Government; CM Atishi Responds
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New Delhi, Dec 23 (NationPress) After chess veteran Tania Sachdev, former world champion boxer Gaurav Bidhuri has stepped forward to criticize the Delhi government for its bias against athletes and neglect of their accomplishments.
On Monday morning, Tania expressed her disappointment regarding the lack of recognition from the Delhi government for her achievements. "Having represented India since 2008, it is disheartening to witness this absence of acknowledgment from the Delhi government regarding achievements in chess. States that champion their athletes inspire excellence and foster talent. Unfortunately, Delhi has yet to take this initiative," she shared on X.
Pointing out her recent milestones, including the historic Chess Olympic gold, Tania remarked, "To date, there has been no recognition from the state government."
Bidhuri, who secured a bronze medal at the 2017 Boxing World Championships, quickly voiced his support for Tania's sentiments, stating that athletes from Delhi earn medals for the nation but are treated differently compared to those from other states, highlighting the government’s lack of acknowledgment for medal-winning athletes.
"Why is no one addressing this issue of discrimination that athletes from Delhi face? We earn the same medals for India yet are treated differently across states," Bidhuri expressed on X.
He went on to say that the Delhi government dodges its responsibilities by emphasizing the national capital's Union Territory status. "We, the people of Delhi, are like orphans; they label it a Union Territory and shift all responsibilities to the central government," he said.
Responding to Tania's comments, Chief Minister Atishi asserted that the Delhi government has always supported its athletes and expressed eagerness to hear suggestions on further assistance for the players.
"Hi Tania, we have consistently supported all our athletes, sportsmen, and sportswomen, especially in schools. I would love to meet you and discuss what more can be done, particularly for chess players. My office will contact you, and I am genuinely looking forward to your insights and suggestions," Atishi replied to Tania's post on X.
This is not the first occasion athletes from Delhi have voiced concerns about being overlooked by the city government for their accomplishments.
Following the Tokyo Olympics, 400m runner Sarthak Bhambri, a member of the 4x400m relay team that set an Asian record at the Games, also highlighted the absence of financial support from the Delhi government.
"I can assure you that the Delhi government never assisted me; no financial support was ever extended," stated 22-year-old Bhambri, who lives in Rajouri Garden and is currently pursuing his undergraduate studies. "Posters have been displayed stating, 'Delhi says win medals at the Olympics.' How can we win in such a manner?" he remarked to IANS.
"I noticed that crores have been allocated to hoardings and posters for the Olympics. If they had provided us with just 10-15 percent of that for our preparations months ahead of the Olympics, it could have significantly improved our performance," he added.
Indian wrestler Divya Kakran has also criticized the Delhi government for failing to deliver promised financial support to prepare for international competitions.
