Gulmarg, Mar 13 :The medallists of the much-hyped first Khelo India Winter Games that concluded on Wednesday at famous Ski-resort Gulmarg have accused government of denying them cash prize.Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Kiren Rijiuju had inaugurated the five-day Khelo India Winter Games at Gulmarg on March 7.The players accused authorities of discriminatory attitude while dealing with the athletes of the valley.
“We are denied cash prizes. While governments of other states offer cash prizes in the Khelo India events to encourage players, the Jammu and Kashmir administration are denying us the cash rewards,” they said.
“We were told that we will get cash rewards for the first three positions. But today, we received only medals. Are we the children of lesser God,”“Was the event held to promote sports or downgrade the sportspersons,” he said. Another medallist asked why government conducted such an event if it lacked funds. “Cash prizes are given all over India.(GNS)