Parabadminton player awaiting for his dues by PCI since June 2022

It was during the 2022 Para badminton International when the athlete, Sanjeev kumar along with his four teammates had to pay the organizers to access their accommodation and the venue.

Indian officials who were responsible for the team started playing a blame game. In June 2023 before the next edition, an email was sent from Joran Bridal, the Executive Director of Badminton Canada regarding the pending invoice of $2,480.

In the mail it clearly stated that only after the payment is done will the player be let into their accommodation and competition venue.

This led to an international embarrassment as the players were asked to vacate their hotel because the balance invoice was unpaid. 

“We were told to pay for accommodation and entry fees ourselves. We had no choice but to pay out of our own pockets. Since we paid all the dues, we had to borrow money for meals” Sanjeev Kumar stated.

A receipt issued by badminton Canada confirms that Sanjeev Kumar paid $710 (around 59,500) to cover the fees and accommodation. Para badminton official under the BAI said the amount was paid to PCI to cover expenses including entry fees.

The blame game just keeps going on whereas player, Sanjeev Kumar who has sent numerous reminders for refund still awaits a positive response from Para badminton chairman (Prabhakar rao)

Para Badminton Champion Calls for Transfer to Paralympic Committee of India

Para Badminton Champion Calls for Transfer to Paralympic Committee of India

Paralympic champion Nitesh Kumar has raised concerns over the lack of recognition and administrative support for para badminton within the Badminton Association of India (BAI). Kumar, who won a historic gold medal in the SL3 class at the Paris Paralympics, has called for para badminton to be transferred under the aegis of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) for the sport’s betterment and progress.

Kumar expressed his dissatisfaction with BAI’s lack of attention to para badminton, despite the significant achievements of para shuttlers. “We have won 21 medals at the Asian Para Games, around 14-15 medals at the World Championships, and 5 medals at the Paralympics, but we don’t receive basic appreciation from BAI,” Kumar said.

He highlighted several administrative issues affecting para shuttlers, including delays, inefficiencies, and logistical problems. “There are significant administrative delays and inefficiencies. Often, only 1 or 2 people manage everything, and it’s kind of too much for them, they sometimes miss things,” Kumar said.

Kumar emphasized the need for a dedicated administration team, clear communication channels, and player involvement in selection procedures. “First and foremost, we need a proper administration team. Currently, all responsibilities often fall on one person, which at times gets overwhelming. With a dedicated team, tasks can be distributed effectively and managed more efficiently,” Kumar said.

He also raised concerns about the lack of support for para badminton in terms of funding, training facilities, and equipment. “We need more funding for para badminton. We need better training facilities and equipment. We need more coaches and support staff,” Kumar said.

Kumar’s call for the transfer of para badminton to PCI has received support from other para shuttlers and sports enthusiasts. They believe that PCI has a better track record of supporting para sports and can provide the necessary resources and support for the growth and development of para badminton in India.

Indian Para Shuttler Nitesh Kumar Secures Maiden Paralympic Medal

Nitesh Kumar Slams BAI, Calls for Shift of Para Badminton to PCI

In a powerful social media statement that has resonated deeply within the sports community, Nitesh Kumar, India’s gold medalist from the 2024 Paris Paralympics, has publicly criticized the Badminton Association of India (BAI). The 29-year-old para-badminton star, who made headlines for his remarkable achievement in the Men’s Singles SL3 category, expressed his dissatisfaction with BAI’s engagement in para-badminton responsibilities and has urged that the sport be transferred to the Paralympics Committee of India (PCI).

Nitesh’s frustration is rooted in the perceived lack of support and responsiveness from BAI regarding the needs and interests of para-badminton athletes. In his candid remarks on social media, he highlighted that despite the association’s rare moments of appreciation, the athletes feel largely ignored. “We are highly dissatisfied with the response and the interest from BAI,” he stated, emphasizing the need for a more dedicated focus on para-badminton that PCI could potentially provide.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Nitesh’s social media post tagged prominent figures, including the Sports Minister, Mansukh Mandaviya, and Arunachal Pradesh MP, Kiren Rijiju. By reaching out to these authorities, Nitesh hopes to amplify the voices of fellow para-athletes who share similar sentiments. His plea is clear: the governance of para-badminton needs to be handled by those who are attuned to the unique challenges faced by these athletes.

Nitesh Kumar’s journey has been nothing short of inspirational. Having won India’s second gold medal at the Paris Paralympics without losing a single match, his dedication and skill showcase the heights that can be achieved even against substantial odds. The final match saw him triumph over Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell with scores of 21-14, 18-21, and 23-21. His resilience in the face of a life-altering accident in 2009, which resulted in permanent leg damage, further underscores his remarkable spirit and passion for the sport.

As calls for a transfer of governance continue to echo through the sporting world, it remains to be seen how BAI will respond to the growing discontent among para-badminton athletes. Nitesh Kumar’s bold stand not only highlights the urgent need for change but also sets a precedent for other athletes to speak up regarding their concerns. As his journey unfolds, supporters hope that his voice leads to meaningful change for para-badminton in India, ensuring that the sport receives the attention and support it truly deserves.

Satya Prakash Sangwan Appointed Chef de Mission for Indian Contingent at Paris Paralympics

Satya Prakash Sangwan Appointed Chef de Mission for Indian Contingent at Paris Paralympics

Paralympic Committee of India Appoints Satya Prakash Sangwan as Chef de Mission for Paris Paralympics

The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) has appointed Satya Prakash Sangwan as the chef de mission of the Indian contingent for the upcoming Paris Paralympics. Sangwan, who is the PCI’s vice president, brings with him over a decade of experience in the Paralympic movement.

As the chef de mission, Sangwan will be responsible for leading India’s largest-ever contingent of 84 para-athletes, who will compete across 12 sports disciplines at the Paris Paralympics. This will be the first time that India will send such a large contingent to the Paralympics.

Sangwan expressed his honor at being entrusted with this responsibility and pledged to ensure that the athletes have everything they need to succeed and make India proud at the Paralympics.

“It is a great honor to be entrusted with this responsibility. I am committed to ensuring that our athletes have everything they need to succeed and make India proud at the Paralympics,” Sangwan said.

PCI President Devendra Jhajharia praised Sangwan’s dedication and leadership, expressing confidence that the team will achieve great success at the Paris Paralympics under his guidance.

“Mr. Satya Prakash Sangwan has been an integral part of the Paralympic Committee of India for over a decade. His dedication and leadership have always been an inspiration to our athletes,” Jhajharia said. “We are confident that under his guidance as Chef de Mission, our team will achieve great success at the Paris Paralympics 2024.”

Sangwan’s appointment as chef de mission is a testament to his commitment to the Paralympic movement and his dedication to ensuring that Indian para-athletes have the opportunity to compete at the highest level.

Indian Paralympic Contingent Receives Grand Send-Off for Paris Games

Indian Paralympic Contingent Receives Grand Send-Off for Paris Games

Indian Paralympic Contingent Receives Grand Send-Off for Paris Games

The Indian Paralympic contingent, comprising 84 athletes across 12 disciplines, was accorded a grand send-off ceremony on Friday ahead of the Paris Games scheduled from August 28 to September 8. The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) and Sports Authority of India (SAI) hosted the event to honor the team’s dedication and perseverance.

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya lauded the athletes’ resilience and determination, stating, “Our para athletes have a remarkable ability to overcome obstacles and turn challenges into opportunities. They have shown remarkable determination and perseverance in their preparation for the Paris Paralympics 2024.”

Mandaviya emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the athletes, saying, “Many athletes have benefited from the Khelo India initiative, and a significant number from there will be going to the Paris Paralympics. The government is committed to providing them with the resources and support they need to excel at the highest level.”

PCI president Devendra Jhajharia expressed confidence in the team’s ability to perform well in Paris, saying, “We are immensely proud of our athletes who have trained with unwavering dedication and passion. As they prepare to represent India on the world’s biggest stage in Paris, they embody the spirit of resilience and determination that defines our nation.”

A special anthem, “Macha Dhoom,” composed by renowned music directors Vivek – Abhishek, was launched during the event. Additionally, a commemorative book titled “Breaking the Barriers,” authored by Abhishek Dubey and Mahavir Rawat, was unveiled to celebrate the achievements and aspirations of the Indian Paralympic team.

The Indian contingent will be competing in archery, athletics, badminton, canoeing, cycling, blind judo, powerlifting, rowing, shooting, swimming, table tennis, and taekwondo at the Paris Paralympics. The team hopes to build on its success at the Tokyo Paralympics, where India won 19 medals.

Paralympic Legend Devendra Jhajharia Elected President of Paralympic Committee of India

Paralympic Legend Devendra Jhajharia Elected President of Paralympic Committee of India

Indian Paralympic legend Devendra Jhajharia has been elected as the new president of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI). The 42-year-old javelin thrower, who has won three Paralympic medals, including two golds and a silver, takes over from Deepa Malik, a Paralympics silver medalist athlete.

Jhajharia’s election comes after a period of turmoil for the PCI. In February, the Sports Ministry suspended the government recognition of the PCI due to delays in holding elections and non-compliance with guidelines. The Sports Ministry had also criticized the PCI’s decision to hold the election on March 28 as “willful, intentional, and without any valid reason.”

Following the suspension, the PCI announced that the elections would be held on March 9 in New Delhi. The Sports Ministry subsequently revoked the suspension of the PCI with immediate effect, citing the PCI’s commitment to hosting the 2024 World Shooting Para Sport World Cup later this month.

Jhajharia’s election is a significant step for the PCI. The three-time Paralympic medalist is a respected figure in the Paralympic movement and is expected to bring stability and leadership to the organization. He has pledged to work towards the development of para-sports in India and to ensure that Indian athletes have the best possible support and opportunities to succeed at the highest level.

PCI Suspension Revoked Ahead of Para Shooting World Cup

PCI Suspension Revoked Ahead of Para Shooting World Cup

The Ministry of Sports has lifted the suspension imposed on the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) after the body initiated the process for its long-pending elections. The elections, which were initially scheduled for January 31, 2024, were postponed to March 28 due to the impending Para Shooting World Cup.

The PCI has now proposed March 9 as the new date for the elections and has begun the process of nominations. Most of the top posts are set to be filled without any contest, including the position of President, which will be held by multiple-time Paralympic medallist Devendra Jhajharia.

The Ministry of Sports stated that the “main ground for suspension of government recognition” has been addressed. The ministry also noted that the PCI is hosting the 2024 World Shooting Para Sport World Cup from March 6-15 in New Delhi, which was a factor in the decision to revoke the suspension.

The Para Shooting World Cup offers 24 Paris Paralympic quota places, and over 500 shooters from 52 countries are expected to participate in the event. Jhajharia, who has won gold medals in the 2004 Athens and 2016 Rio Paralympics, is the only candidate who filed nomination papers for the PCI chief’s post.

Other key positions that will be filled unopposed include Secretary General (Jayawant Hammanawar), Vice-Presidents (R Chandrashekhar and Satya Prakash Sangwan), Treasurer (Sunil Pradhan), and Joint Secretaries (Lalit Thakur and T Diwakara).

The PCI had received support from the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) after the suspension. The IPC had stated that it would continue to recognize the PCI as the only body for para sports in India.

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