Two Karnataka players from India's World Cup-winning Kho Kho teams have declined the state government's cash award of Rs 5 lakh, expressing dissatisfaction over the recognition received for their achievement.
MK Gautham and Chaitra B, who were part of the victorious men's and women's teams respectively in the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, announced their decision despite being felicitated by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
"We are not disrespecting the Chief Minister by rejecting the award, but we did not receive the respect we deserve," Gautham told reporters. He highlighted that Karnataka and Maharashtra were the only states to have two players each in the World Cup-winning teams, adding that Maharashtra had provided better support to its players.
Gautham criticised the disparity in recognition between traditional sports and cricket. "These days parents do not let their children play rural games and all the government funds are released for cricket. Even before the last ball is played, people (government) announce it on Twitter about the prize and award," he said.
Echoing similar sentiments, Chaitra B demanded parity in awards with other World Cup winners. "Like other sportspersons, we too have got medals but we are deprived of the facilities given to sportspersons for various games," she said, adding that such treatment would discourage players from pursuing the sport.
The development comes at a time when Chief Minister Siddaramaiah holds the sports portfolio, having taken charge after B Nagendra's resignation in June 2024 following corruption allegations.