Neeraj Chopra decides to end 2021 season, says focus shifted to packed 2022
New Delhi, Aug 26: Olympic gold medallist javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra has decided to end his 2021 competition season due to a "packed schedule of travel and a bout of illness" and vowed to comeback stronger in a busy 2022.
"The packed schedule of travel and a bout of illness has meant I have not been able to resume training since Tokyo...," Neeraj wrote on an instagram post.
"...therefore, along with my team, have decided to cut short by 2021 competition season to be able to take some time off, recharge and come back stronger for a packed 2022 calendar which includes the World Championships, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games."
The 23-year-old Chopra, who had ended India's 100-year wait for a track and field medal in the Olympics with a gold medal at Tokyo, has been on a busy schedule since his return to the country, leaving him exhausted. He also suffered a slight bout of fever.
Chopra, who has been attending various felicitation functions across the country, was overwhelmed by all the support.
"Firstly, I want to thank everyone for the love and affection I have received since I came back from Tokyo. I have honestly been overwhelmed by the support from across the country and beyond, and am short of words to express my gratitude to you all," he said.
"I have been encouraged by all the support to Indian athletics over these past few weeks and would urge you all to keep supporting India and Indian athletics in the months and years to come."
Chopra had become only the second Indian to win an individual gold in the Olympics when he produced a second round throw of 87.58m in the finals at Tokyo.
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Protest over ATM staff shooting ends after assurance from MP Sagar Khandre
Bidar: A major protest erupted in front of the district government hospital following a deadly shooting incident involving State Bank of India ATM staff. One staff member was killed, and another critically injured when unidentified assailants opened fire as they attempted to deposit money at the ATM.
The incident drew public outrage, with family members of the victims and local residents gathering outside the hospital. They demanded immediate compensation, job security for a family member, and expedited post-mortem procedures, criticizing the absence of senior officials and government representatives earlier in the day.
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MP Sagar Khandre later arrived to offer condolences and address the protesters' concerns. Responding to demands, he assured that he would discuss the matter with the Chief Minister to arrange for two acres of land and a government job for the victim’s family. Additionally, he confirmed that since the case falls under the Atrocity Act, the Social Welfare Department would provide Rs. 8 lakh in compensation.
Following his assurances, the protest was called off, bringing temporary relief to the tense situation. Police investigations into the robbery and shooting are ongoing, with senior officials, including IGP Ajay Hiroli, overseeing the case.
