Share your story and shine at JK Monitor!🌟 Welcome to JK Monitor, where every story matters and every achievement is celebrated! We invite you to share the remarkable journey of your life and showcase your accomplishments to the world. Join our exclusive interviews that honor exceptional individuals just like you. JAMMU: BJP Jammu & Kashmir State Secretary Pawan Sharma has expressed serious concern over the inclusion of Pencak Silat players in the recently released list of 223 Outstanding Sportspersons by the Jammu & Kashmir Government, alleging that the selection process appears to be partial, non-transparent, and unjustified.
In a statement issued today, Sharma said that several Pencak Silat athletes who have brought laurels to Jammu & Kashmir at national and international levels have been ignored, while the basis of selection for those included in the list remains unclear. He emphasized that such decisions not only undermine the spirit of sportsmanship but also discourage talented players who have worked tirelessly to achieve excellence in their respective disciplines.
“The government must ensure that recognition and benefits meant for outstanding sportspersons are awarded strictly on merit, achievements, and established criteria. Any perception of favoritism or selective consideration damages the credibility of the entire process and causes resentment among deserving athletes,” Sharma said.
He further stated that Jammu & Kashmir has emerged as a strong contributor to Indian sports, with athletes from various disciplines consistently winning medals and representing the Union Territory with distinction. Therefore, it is imperative that all sportspersons receive equal treatment and fair consideration, irrespective of personal affiliations or other extraneous factors.
Sharma noted that the sports fraternity, particularly the Pencak Silat community, has raised legitimate concerns regarding the omission of several deserving athletes from the list. He urged the authorities to address these grievances in a transparent manner and restore confidence among players and sports organizations.
Calling for immediate corrective action, Sharma demanded that the Jammu & Kashmir Government constitute an independent review of the selection process and make public the criteria adopted for preparing the list of 223 Outstanding Sportspersons. He also sought a re-evaluation of all eligible cases to ensure that no deserving athlete is deprived of recognition and opportunities.
“Sports should unite and inspire our youth. The government must uphold the principles of fairness, transparency, and meritocracy in all sports-related decisions. A comprehensive review of the list will not only ensure justice for deserving athletes but also strengthen faith in the institutions responsible for promoting sports in Jammu & Kashmir,” he added.
Sharma expressed hope that the government would take cognizance of the concerns raised by the sporting community and undertake a fair reassessment of the list in the larger interest of athletes and the development of sports in the Union Territory.
