Sushil Kumar recommended for Padma Bhushan
Two-time Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar, on Tuesday, has been recommended for India's third-highest civilian honour, Padma Bhushan by the WFI. In the light of the wrestler's recent feud with the wrestling body regarding the Olympic berth, this news has come as a surprise.
Wrestling Federation of India(WFI) has recommended star wrestler Sushil Kumar's name to the Sports Ministry on Tuesday for Padma Bhushan, said a report published by India Today. Sushil had previously been recommended for the award last year, but only his father-in-law and mentor, Satpal Singh was honoured with the prestigious award on January 26th.
Sushil Kumar was involved in a legal battle with Narsingh Yadav, for the participation berth in the Olympics in the 74Kg category which was finally won by Narsingh Yadav. Relationships between Sushil and the federation turned sour due to this issue, but one of WFI's top officials, on Tuesday, revealed that they have processed his name for the honour.
"It's been some time since Sushil applied for the Padma Bhushan. His application was processed immediately, the day his coach Yashvir came up with the application. WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh gave his go-ahead and the federation has recommended his name for the prestigious award," reported India Today.
According to the report, WFI has also forwarded the names of Sushil’s coach and Dronacharya awardee Yashvir Singh and female wrestler Alka Tomar's name for Padma Shri.
Additionally, 15-time World billiards and snooker champion Pankaj Advani is also among the recommended list of sports persons for Padma Bhushan. Shooter Jitu Rai and table tennis player Achanta Sharath Kamal have also been recommended for Padma Shri.