Video Editor: Purnendu Pritam
While the nation celebrates the medallists of the Asian Games and give them a hero’s welcome, a national level para-athlete is forced to beg on the streets of Bhopal for a living.
Manmohan Singh Lodhi, 28, lost his hand 10 years ago while farming. He says that he had met Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who had promised him a government job, which never materialised.
I have met the chief minister four times now, but to no avail. He had promised me several things but so far, I haven’t received anything.Manmohan Singh Lodhi, Para-athlete
He adds that he has been going from politician to politician, who only give him assurances but unfortunately no job letter.
Lodhi has won silver in the 100m sprinting event at the Special Olympics Bharat, 2017.
On the Asian Games medallists being welcomed as heroes, he says that it is unfair that the CM announced a reward of Rs 55 lakh for Harshita Tomar, but can’t get him a job.
If the chief minister doesn’t help me, I will earn my livelihood by begging on the streets.Manmohan Singh Lodhi, Para-athlete
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)