Sports ministry to persuade Bajrang Punia to reverse his decision to return Padma Shri
New Delhi, Dec 22: The Sports Ministry on Friday said Bajrang Punia's decision to return his Padma Shri award in protest against Sanjay Singh's election as Wrestling Federation of India president is a personal one but it will still try to convince him to rethink the move.
Olympic medallist grappler Bajrang decided to return the honour a day after Sanjay, a Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh loyalist, was elected to the top post at WFI.
On Thursday, Sanjay was elected as the president of the WFI after the panel led by the close aide of Brij Bhushan won 13 of the 15 posts.
Sakshi Malik, Bajrang and Vinesh Phogat addressed a press conference after Sanjay's election in which Sakshi, a bronze medallist at the 2016 Rio Olympics, announced that she would quit the sport as a mark of protest.
But ministry sources said the WFI elections were conducted in a free and transparent manner.
"It is Bajrang Punia's personal decision to return Padma Shri. The WFI elections were held in fair and democratic manner," a ministry official told PTI.
"We will still try to persuade Bajrang to reverse his decision to return Padma Shri," he added.
Bajrang on Friday tried to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and hand over a protest letter, where he mentioned about returning his Padma Shri award.
But he was stopped at Kartavya Path by Delhi Police officials since he didn't have any prior appointment.
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Chikkamagaluru: Temporary restrictions at tourist spots for New Year from tomorrow
Chikkamagaluru: Several high-footfall tourist destinations in the district, which are popular during New Year celebrations, will remain closed as a precautionary measure ahead of the festivities.
The district administration has imposed temporary restrictions on tourist spots in a bid to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure public safety.
Where are the restrictions imposed ?
Tourists will be prohibited from visiting Mullayanagiri, Seethalayangiri, Manikyadhara, Jhari Falls, Honnammana Halla Falls, Gaali Kere, Hirekolale, Kemmangundi, Ettina Bhuja, Devaramane, Diamond Falls, Rani Jhari Edge Point, Ballalarayana Durga, Bandaje Falls, Kudige Falls, Kyatanamakki, Rudrapada Suspension Bridge, Abbugudige Falls, Ayyanakere, Madagadakere, Kallatthigiri and Hebbe Falls from 6 pm on December 31 to 6 am on January 1.
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However, there will be no restrictions on tourists who have already registered online and booked homestays or resorts located within the restricted areas.
In addition, tight police security arrangements have been made at all tourist spots and along access routes.
