Chandigarh: Kurukshetra MP Naveen Jindal has renewed his appeal to the Centre and sports authorities to ensure international karate champion Alisha Choudhary represents India at the 2026 Asian Games, saying deserving athletes should not be denied opportunities due to administrative hurdles.Alisha, from Pundri in Kurukshetra district, won became the first Indian to win gold at the Asian Senior Karate Championship after clinching the women’s 55kg kumite title.With the Asian Games scheduled for Sept, Jindal stressed that Alisha’s participation remains uncertain despite meeting the sports ministry’s eligibility norms. The uncertainty stems from the absence of a recognised National Sports Federation for karate in the country.Jindal recently met Union sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya and raised Alisha’s case, urging an early resolution. He said the minister had assured him that appropriate action would be taken.The BJP MP also appealed to Union minister of state for sports Raksha Khadse, Indian Olympic Association president P T Usha, the ministry of youth affairs and sports, the Sports Authority of India and the IOA to facilitate the process and ensure that eligible karate athletes are not denied an opportunity to compete.“Alisha Choudhary’s achievement is a proud moment for the country. Athletes who have earned the honour of representing India should never lose that opportunity because of administrative issues. I am hopeful the authorities will complete the necessary process in time, enabling Alisha and other deserving athletes to proudly wear the India colours at the Asian Games,” Jindal said.He reiterated his commitment to supporting talented sportspersons and ensuring they receive opportunities to excel on the international stage. MSID:: 132659595 413 |
