Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh today ordered the release of Rs 5 lakh for the treatment of ailing Asiad Gold medal winner athlete Hakam Singh.
The chief minister, who had earlier tweeted his concern, has directed the Barnala district administration to ensure all necessary assistance is available to the Dhyan Chand Award winner. Earlier, the CM had asked the deputy commissioner to visit the athlete.
Hakam Singh is undergoing treatment for liver and kidney ailments, said an official spokesman.
The former athlete, who had also served as havaldar in the 6 Sikh Regiment, was conferred the Dhyan Chand Award in 2008.
A near fatal accident in 1981 had forced him to hang up his boots, marking an abrupt end to an illustrious sports career.
On the day, the chief minister reiterated his government's commitment to welfare of former sportspersons in the state.