Stories
Indian Para-Shooters Protest Against PCI Ahead Of Asian Para Games 2026
- •Indian para-shooters staged a protest against the Paralympic Committee of India in New Delhi during the official send-off ceremony for the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games.
- •SH1 para-shooters Sandeep Kumar and Aakash led the demonstration outside ITC Maurya, alleging unfair selection practices and last-minute policy changes.
- •Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya had earlier unveiled the new Team India jersey and flagged off the contingent for the upcoming games in Japan.
- •PCI president Devendra Jhajharia responded to the protest by stating that the committee maintains constant communication with athletes and prioritizes their concerns.
- •Paralympic champions Pramod Bhagat and Bhavina Patel are set to lead the Indian contingent as flag bearers at the opening ceremony on October 18, 2026.
Key Questions Answered
Indian para-shooters Sandeep Kumar and Aakash staged a protest alleging unfair selection practices and a last-minute policy change by the Paralympic Committee of India ahead of the 2026 Asian Para Games. Athletes also submitted a representation to the Sports Authority of India alleging extortion, corruption, and pressure to surrender 20 percent of government cash awards as a selection condition, alongside quota and score manipulations.
PCI president Devendra Jhajharia rejected the allegations, maintaining that the team was selected strictly on merit and in accordance with prescribed Sports Ministry guidelines. While noting that athletes are a top priority and that the committee remains in constant dialogue with them, Jhajharia stated that the protest was unnecessary.
Paralympic champions Pramod Bhagat and Bhavina Patel will lead the Indian contingent as flag bearers at the Opening Ceremony of the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games on October 18.
