Empowering Talent: BJP OBC Morcha Backs J&K Handicapped Association’s Demand for Athlete Stipends

Jammu, Feb 4:

In a strong show of support for inclusive sports, the BJP OBC Morcha (Jammu District) organized a special program today to advocate for the rights and financial security of differently-abled athletes in Jammu and Kashmir. Joining forces with the J&K Handicapped Association, the Morcha has appealed to the UT administration to implement a regular stipend or pension policy for para-athletes.

Challenges: Financial Hurdles Blocking National Glory

During the event, district leaders highlighted that while J&K has no dearth of talent—citing examples like international wheelchair basketball player Ishrat Akther and para-taekwondo world medalist Chandeep Singh—many aspiring athletes are forced to quit due to extreme poverty.

Key issues raised by the Morcha include:

• Prohibitive Costs: Specialized sports wheelchairs can cost upwards of ₹35,000, making them unaffordable for many.

• Lack of Facilities: Absence of dedicated training centers and travel allowances for national-level competitions.

• Basic Survival: With current monthly disability pensions often as low as ₹1,250, athletes struggle to manage nutrition and equipment.

“A National Duty, Not Just Social Responsibility”

Addressing the gathering, Braham Jyot Satti, President of BJP OBC Morcha J&K, emphasized that empowering differently-abled sportspersons is a vital component of the “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” vision.

“Our handicapped athletes show immense courage on the field, but they shouldn’t have to fight a battle for basic financial survival off it. Providing them with a dedicated stipend is not just a social responsibility; it is a national duty to ensure they bring glory to our country,” Satti stated.

Key Leaders in Attendance

The program saw participation from several prominent office bearers, including:

• Arun Sethi (District President, BJP OBC Morcha Jammu)

• Arun Mehra (District Vice President)

• Sanjay Verma & Rajesh Verma (District General Secretaries)

The Resolution

The OBC Morcha concluded the event with a formal resolution to take the matter to higher administrative levels. They have urged the J&K Government to frame a dedicated sports policy for the differently-abled that includes:

1. Monthly financial stipends for active athletes.

2. Subsidies for high-end para-sports equipment.

3. Job reservations under the 6% quota as per the RPwD Act 2016.