Dec 20, 2023
Nitu Ghanghas: A Champ’s Fight Beyond the Ring – Legal Battle for Arjuna Recognition
In a riveting twist of fate, Nitu Ghanghas, the formidable 23-year-old reigning world champion in the women’s 48kg boxing category, finds herself entangled in a surprising and disheartening controversy – a conspicuous absence from this year’s Arjuna award nominations. Undeterred by this setback, which comes despite her stellar accomplishments, including gold at the World Championships and the Commonwealth Games, Nitu embarks on a determined journey, contemplating legal action to reclaim the recognition she rightfully believes is hers.
Shattered Confidence: Nitu, celebrated for her boxing prowess, submitted her Arjuna award application in October, brimming with confidence in securing a coveted spot on the esteemed shortlist. However, a devastating blow awaited her as the selection committee opted not to recommend her for the award, leaving the young champion profoundly disappointed and disheartened.
Legal Battle Beckons: Refusing to yield to this unexpected turn of events, Nitu Ghanghas resolves to initiate legal proceedings, signaling her unwavering commitment to challenging the decision and ensuring the rightful bestowal of the Arjuna award. In a poignant statement, she expresses her disappointment while underscoring her determination to seek judicial intervention to rectify what she perceives as an oversight tarnishing her commendable achievements.
Athletic Eminence: Nitu’s remarkable journey, spanning the assessment period from January 1, 2019, to October 2023, stands testament to her unwavering dedication and exceptional skill. Notable milestones during this period include clinching the Commonwealth Games gold in Birmingham last year and securing gold at the World Championships in March – accomplishments that define her outstanding career.
Astonishment and Disbelief: Caught off guard by the unexpected exclusion, Nitu articulates her astonishment and disbelief, pointing to her commendable achievements during the assessment period as irrefutable proof of her eligibility for the Arjuna award. Her conviction remains unshaken as she asserts her rightful claim to acknowledgment for her substantial contributions to Indian sports.
Coach’s Resolute Support: Nitu’s coach, Jagdish Singh, stands steadfast in supporting her decision to pursue legal recourse. Highlighting their unsuccessful attempts to secure a meeting with Sports Minister Anurag Thakur, the coach underscores their unyielding resolve to seek justice and recognition for Nitu’s exceptional contributions to the realm of sports.
Legal Preparations Underway: Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Nitu and her coach enlist the legal expertise of Rahul Mehra to prepare a meticulous writ petition. The intention is clear – if a hearing with the sports minister proves elusive, the legal battle will escalate to the Delhi High Court, setting the stage for a judicial confrontation.
Direct Appeal to Authorities: In a proactive move, Nitu pens a compelling letter to Sports Minister Anurag Thakur, expressing her surprise at the committee’s decision and firmly asserting her deserving candidacy for the Arjuna award. The letter, also dispatched to the Prime Minister’s Office, implores swift intervention to rectify the oversight that threatens to overshadow her outstanding achievements.
Solidarity in Dissent: Nitu’s dissent echoes a broader sentiment among athletes, with ace compound archer Jyothi Surekha Vennam also expressing disappointment over missing the Khel Ratna nomination. The highest sports honor for athletes is now mired in contemplation of legal action, showcasing a shared determination among athletes to confront challenges to their rightful recognition.
As Nitu Ghanghas embarks on this arduous legal battle, she transforms from a boxing champion into a symbol of resilience, challenging the status quo for the rightful acknowledgment of her extraordinary contributions to Indian sports. This unfolding saga promises to captivate not just sports enthusiasts but anyone who values justice and the unwavering pursuit of what is rightfully earned.
