Differently-abled sportspersons swallow poison before CM Siddaramaiah

Karnakata Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who was in Mysore to distribute the prestigious Ekalavya awards, was in for a rude shock on Monday as several physically-challenged sportspersons threatened to commit suicide at the venue.

These sportspersons, who came from Mysore, Mandya, Hassan, Hubbli and other districts, were seated in the front row and had requested to meet the CM. After the function, Siddaramaiah approached them and listened to their grievances. But as he began to leave, the differently-abled athletes demanded for some assurances from him.

The athletes complained they were being neglected despite having achieved a lot for the state at both national and international events. They then insisted the CM to instruct the Minister of sports, commissioner and other officers present at the venue to resolve their grievances. 

But when the CM tried to move away without giving a reply, the athletes tried to consume poison. However, the police intervened and stopped them.

They said that they have been pleading before the Sports Department since 2011 for better facilities for disabled athletes but none had responded till now.

• Chief Minister Siddaramaiah
• Siddaramaiah
• eklavya awards