Indian Para-Badminton Stars Seek More Support from BAI After Paris Paralympics Success
Indian para-shuttlers Nitesh Kumar, Krishna Nagar, Maneesha, and Sukant Kadam are calling for more support from the Badminton Association of India (BAI) after their remarkable performance at the Paris Paralympics. The athletes returned with five medals, including one gold, two silver, and two bronze.
Nitesh Kumar’s Appeal
Nitesh Kumar, who won gold in the men’s singles SL3 category, expressed his disappointment on social media. He stated that the athletes are ‘highly dissatisfied’ with BAI’s response and interest in para-badminton responsibilities. Nitesh requested BAI and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) to hand over para-badminton to the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI).
BAI’s Response
BAI responded by stating that they are working on a concrete plan for the future growth of para-badminton. They promised to personally reach out to medallists, coaches, and staff to understand their concerns and develop a long-term action plan.
Continued Concerns
Despite BAI’s response, Nitesh reiterated that the para-athletes are not receiving adequate appreciation or support. He appealed for a designated body within BAI to handle para-badminton issues or to transfer responsibilities to PCI.
Other Athletes’ Views
Krishna Nagar, who also competed in Paris, shared similar sentiments, calling the lack of recognition ‘very insulting.’ Manisha Ramadass, a bronze medallist, agreed with Nitesh’s views and urged BAI to take responsibility. Sukant Kadam, who narrowly missed a bronze, called for equal treatment of able-bodied and para-athletes and full support from BAI.
Doubts Revealed
Para-Badminton -: Para-Badminton is a version of badminton for athletes with physical disabilities. It is played with the same rules as regular badminton but may have some modifications to accommodate the players’ needs.
BAI -: BAI stands for the Badminton Association of India. It is the organization responsible for promoting and managing the sport of badminton in India.
Paris Paralympics -: The Paris Paralympics is a major international sports event where athletes with disabilities compete. It is similar to the Olympics but specifically for athletes with physical, mental, and sensory disabilities.
Nitesh Kumar -: Nitesh Kumar is an Indian para-badminton player who recently won a gold medal at the Paris Paralympics. He is one of the athletes asking for more support from BAI.
Krishna Nagar -: Krishna Nagar is another Indian para-badminton player who competed in the Paris Paralympics. He, along with other athletes, is seeking more support from BAI.
Maneesha -: Maneesha is an Indian para-badminton player who also participated in the Paris Paralympics. She is part of the group asking for better support from BAI.
Sukant Kadam -: Sukant Kadam is an Indian para-badminton player who won a medal at the Paris Paralympics. He is one of the athletes calling for more support from BAI.
Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) -: The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) is an organization that manages and supports Indian athletes with disabilities who compete in the Paralympics. The athletes are suggesting that PCI should take over the responsibilities for para-badminton if BAI cannot provide enough support.