Manini Kaushik, an Asian Games silver medallist and a prominent 50m Rifle 3 Positions shooter, has filed a petition in the Delhi High Court to allow her to participate in the upcoming Olympic selection trials. The trials are scheduled to commence on April 19 at Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range in New Delhi.
Kaushik has raised concerns about the eligibility criteria for the trials. Her contribution to the sport was acknowledged by the Prime Minister in a letter to her after clinching the silver medal at the Asian Games. Despite her achievements, she has not been called for the selection.
Delhi High Court instructs NRAI to respond to Manini Kaushik’s case
The Delhi High Court, under Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, has intervened in Kaushik’s case. The court has sought clarity from both the Centre and the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) on the matter. The court has instructed the authorities to provide instructions by the next week on the matter.
Kaushik’s lawyer highlighted the urgency of the situation, urging the court to allow her to participate in the trials pending a final decision. The court, while acknowledging Kaushik’s achievements, emphasized the importance of respecting sportspersons’ contributions. The court stressed the need to provide Kaushik with an opportunity to participate in the selection process, considering the time constraints.
The NRAI emphasized the non-adversarial nature of the case but raised concerns about the potential ramifications of allowing Kaushik to participate, citing other similarly qualified players. The NRAI clarified that the selection process was meticulously structured, and the eligibility criteria for participation were clearly defined.
Our dedicated and talented 50m Rifle 3 Positions Women's Team has clinched a well-deserved Silver Medal in the Asian Games. They have demonstrated extraordinary talent. Congratulations to Sift Kaur Samra, Ashi Chouksey and Manini Kaushik. pic.twitter.com/5HL6l9T8Fz
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 27, 2023
The court has scheduled further hearings on April 22 to delve deeper into the matter and make a decision that balances the interests of all parties involved.
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