P R Sreejesh Criticizes Kerala Government for Lack of Recognition After Asian Games Gold

Indian hockey player P R Sreejesh has taken a jibe at the Kerala Government, expressing disappointment that no one from the state government congratulated the team after their gold medal win in the Asian Games. Sreejesh mentioned that the only person who came to congratulate them was Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose, who visited their home after their victory in the Asian Games held in China. He expressed his dismay at the lack of recognition, stating that not even a panchayat member visited their home to acknowledge their achievement.

Sreejesh criticized the indifference they faced, emphasizing the impact it could have on future generations of athletes. He pointed out that the neglect they experienced could discourage young athletes, especially when compared to the support received by athletes from other states. He highlighted the example of the Haryana government, which provides significant financial rewards to Asian Games gold medal winners, contrasting it with the lack of recognition they received in their hometowns.

In contrast, Sreejesh praised the motivation provided by other state governments, such as Odisha, where Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik promptly handed over a check of Rs 1.5 crore to his hockey teammate Amit Rohidas. He emphasized the importance of such recognition as a driving force for athletes.

India secured the gold medal in the Asian Games by defeating Japan in the finals, with Sreejesh’s outstanding performance playing a crucial role in the team’s victory. Their win also secured direct qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics.