In a veiled reference to disgruntled athletes Krishna Poonia and H N Girisha, former shooter Moraad Ali Khan today said no one should question the credibility of the Khel Ratna award selection panel.
The recommendation of shooter Ronjan Sodhi for the Khel Ratna has sparked off a controversy as a member of the selection panel has raised questions about the selection process.
The panel member has claimed that woman discus thrower Poonia and London Paralympics silver medallist Girisha were shortlisted for voting by 11 out of 12 selection panel members and Sodhi's name was not considered initially.
The decision to bring Sodhi back into contention was taken after one member, a former shooter, came in late for the meeting. Girisha's name was removed and there was voting between Sodhi and Poonia.
Disappointed at being ignored, Poonia yesterday met Sports Minister Jitendra Singh at his official residence to express her displeasure.
"Khel Ratna Award was recommended by a Committee comprising of eminent sportspersons who included world record holders, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Awardees and Arjuna Awardees, with the administrative support of the SAI officials. It is surprising that after recommendation of such an eminent committee, so much of negativity is being generated because of adverse comments being made by those who have not been selected for the Award," Moraad said in a statement.
