Double Paralympic medalist Harvinder Singh on Khel Ratna controversy: ‘I felt it was necessary to speak up’ – Firstpost

Indian para-archer
Harvinder Singh recently received the prestigious Padma Shri, the country’s fourth-highest civilian award.
Harvinder won gold at the 2024 Paris Paralympics and bronze in Tokyo 2020 in the men’s singles recurve archery event. His achievements marked India’s first-ever Paralympic medals in archery, securing both gold and bronze for the nation.

In an exclusive conversation with Firstpost, he shared his emotions upon receiving the honour and also addressed the controversy surrounding his
Khel Ratna snub.

Harvinder on receiving the call for Padma Shri

Harvinder expressed his excitement about
receiving the Padma Shri, stating that the news came as a pleasant surprise. “The award has been announced, and I expect to receive it in March during the official program. But on January 26th, in the afternoon, I got a call from the Ministry. They first confirmed my identity and then informed me that the Government of India had decided to honor me with the Padma Shri this year. That moment was a huge surprise for me. It was an exciting feeling,” he shared.

Harvinder on his Khel Ratna snub

In December, Harvinder had raised concerns about inconsistencies in India’s sports awards distribution. He questioned why gold medalists from the 2024 Paris Paralympics were not
awarded the Khel Ratna, despite Tokyo gold medalists receiving the honour.

Despite his disappointment, Harvinder maintained a composed and mature approach. “In 2021, all gold medalists were given the Khel Ratna, so I felt the same should happen this time. However, my approach has always been calm and composed. I presented my argument maturely. Whether progress was made on it or not was up to the Ministry. I felt it was necessary to speak up, and I did so in a peaceful and respectful manner.”

However, he clarified that his social media post was not a factor in his Padma Shri recognition. “I wouldn’t say it was because of my post. I believe my name was selected for the Padma Shri based on my achievements. My accomplishments are unique, which is why I felt my name should have been recommended for the Khel Ratna award.”

Harvinder emphasised the significance of his contributions to Indian para-archery. “I have won four historic medals, three of which were the first-ever for India. If anyone has won a medal for the first time in the Olympics or Paralympics, it was me. In 2021, I won bronze; in 2024, I won gold. And it’s not as if I won against just a handful of participants, there were 36 competitors in the Paralympics, both in 2021 and 2024. These are knockout matches; you have to win five consecutive rounds to become a champion. If you lose even one, you’re out.”

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When asked whether he was satisfied with the Padma Shri and wasn’t brooding over not receiving the Khel Ratna, Harvinder remained optimistic. “Even if I didn’t get it this time, I will continue applying in the future. I will keep playing for my country, keep winning medals. When the Ministry, the committee, or the Sports Authority of India feels it is the right time, I will get it.”

He reaffirmed his commitment to the sport and his country. “Not getting it doesn’t mean my life stops or that I will quit the game. My duty towards the country remains the same. I will keep working hard, keep winning medals. And when the Ministry or SAI decides, it will happen.”

Harvinder Singh’s career achievements