Manu Bhaker's Khel Ratna Award Exclusion Triggers Widespread Backlash

The Olympic double medallist blames a possible lapse in her application process, as her omission from the shortlist draws criticism from her family and supporters.

Shooter Manu Bhaker, who won two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics, was not included in the initial shortlist for the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award.
Bhaker acknowledged a possible error in her application but stated her achievements should speak for themselves, with her family insisting she followed the proper process.
The Sports Ministry claims Bhaker did not submit her application, while critics argue her historic Olympic performance warranted automatic consideration.
Her father and coach have expressed disappointment, with her father suggesting systemic issues in the selection process and her coach calling for changes to the self-nomination requirement.
The Sports Ministry has indicated the final list is yet to be decided, leaving open the possibility of her inclusion after public and institutional pressure.