PALAKKAD: Olympian M. Sreeshankar is currently basking in the joy of his Asian Games medal success while harboring deep disappointment over the neglect he has faced from Kerala. Following an injury sustained during his jumps at the Asian Games, doctors have advised him complete rest for his leg. Sreeshankar spoke candidly about the apathy faced by athletes while resting at his home in Yakkara, wearing an air boot on his injured leg.

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As he prepares to fly to London in the coming days for a minor follow-up surgery on his injury, the star athlete expressed his strong dissatisfaction with the state government's sports policies and lack of support. Sreeshankar criticized Kerala for lagging 10 years behind other states when it comes to financial assistance, incentives, and basic infrastructure provided to sportspersons.

Other states are far ahead

Pointing out that while other South Indian states were in a similar position a decade ago, Sreeshankar noted that they have all progressed significantly today. The athletes emerging from those states and their achievements are proof of this. It is not that Kerala hasn't increased its aid, but in other states, financial support has multiplied eight to ten times. He emphasized that although the medal worn around the neck is the same, there is a vast disparity in the support received by athletes in Kerala compared to those in other states.

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Offer from Tamil Nadu and central assistance

Sreeshankar revealed that following his medal win at the Asian Games, he received exceptional support and an invitation from the Tamil Nadu Athletics Association. Since he was born in Tamil Nadu, he is eligible to accept that offer. He warned that if Kerala fails to adopt a more supportive approach moving forward, he might consider accepting Tamil Nadu's offer. He added that the state's attitude toward the sports sector must change, failing which top-tier athletes are likely to leave the state.

Meanwhile, Sreeshankar praised the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) for excellently handling all aspects of his training, facilities, and injury treatment.