Dear Editor,
The controversy over the Padma award to certain sportspersons raises the question: Why should there be any recommendation at all, especially in the sports category, for the Padma recognition? Players like Saina Nehwal and Sushil Kumar need no introduction. If the selection committee is packed with veteran sportspersons, its selection on talent need not be doubted.
However, in hindsight, Nehwal should have avoided creating an issue. Her talent and contribution to Indian badminton is there for all to see, but her sporting spirit appeared lacking in her outburst.
Moreover, when the ‘other person’ in question was Sushil Kumar, Nehwal could have refrained from passing comments on the time gap between two Padma awards. Sushil Kumar has made India proud in wrestling, and is a two-time Olympic medalist. He is also a Commonwealth Games Gold medal winner.
Richa Jain
Jammu