This refers to the editorial, “Wrestlers awaiting prize” (September 12). It is disheartening that the Phogat sisters, who won accolades for the nation in wrestling, have not been rewarded. Such apathy of the sports administration shows the immoral depths to which the bureaucracy can plunge to. The argument that the present Haryana Government inherited a regime devoid of its coffers, not only sounds absurd but also reflects on the utter negligence of the country's sports establishments.
Importantly, rewards, monetary or otherwise, are not just souvenirs for talented sportspersons, but a recognition of their mantle in their respective fields. It is incumbent on the Government, irrespective of its political affiliation, to ensure timely delivery of promised rewards. Further, if the Prime Minister's dream of building a task force for the Olympics is to be realised, the need of hour is to revive India's neglected sports culture by developing proper sports infrastructure in terms of stadium, training, sports equipment and funds.