Garhwal Post Bureau
DEHRADUN, 7 Jun: Senior BJP leader Ravindra Jugran has urged the Uttarakhand Government to implement strict eligibility conditions, including state residency, before granting cash awards to sportspersons who won medals in the recently concluded National Games.
In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and submitted through the Chief Minister’s Chief Personal Secretary Vikram Singh Chauhan, Jugran has emphasised the need to adhere to national guidelines and eligibility parameters laid down by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
Jugran stated that while the state government has announced generous cash awards—Rs 12 lakh for gold medallists, Rs 8 lakh for silver, and Rs 6 lakh for bronze winners—there have been serious lapses in verifying the legitimacy of recipients. He alleged that the Sports Department has disregarded IOA norms and has failed to ensure that only genuine Uttarakhand residents benefit from the scheme.
He reminded that, as per IOA rules, athletes representing a state in national events must either have resided in that state for at least six months prior to January 31, 2025, or should be employed within the state.
Ravindra Jugran urged the government to demand valid proof of residence, including reasons for staying in Uttarakhand, appointment letters in case of employment, school or college admission documents, and rent agreements for those residing in rented accommodations.
He asserted that only athletes fulfilling these criteria should be considered eligible for the state government’s awards, ensuring fairness and transparency in the recognition of sporting excellence.
