The state government’s decision to omit powerlifting from the prestigious Shiv Chhatrapati awards has cast a looming uncertainty over the future of young athletes in the sport, leading to a call for reconsideration by Sanjay Sardesai, the General Secretary of the Maharashtra State Powerlifting Association.
Sanjay Sardesai expressed concern, labeling the government’s move as detrimental to the growth of powerlifting in Maharashtra.
Highlighting the significant contributions of powerlifting athletes to the state’s reputation, he emphasized their success in both national and international arenas, making the exclusion from awards a perplexing decision.
Critics argue that the exclusion of powerlifting, along with other sports, from the award list indicates a potential authoritarian approach by the sports department, undermining the achievements and efforts of athletes.
