No jobs or honours for MP’s World Champion daughters:Blind women’s cricketers allege discrimination by govt; say leaders sent messages, but no one came to meet

The Indian team made history by winning the first-ever Blind Women’s T20 World Cup. They defeated Nepal by 7 wickets in the final. Three players from Madhya Pradesh – Sunita Sarathe (Narmadapuram), Sushma Patel (Damoh), and Durga Yevle (Betul) – played key roles in the victory. Despite this, the MP government has not given them any awards or jobs, unlike other states. Players from MP left unrecognised Odisha announced jobs worth Rs 11 lakh for its players, Karnataka Rs 10 lakh, and Andhra Pradesh Rs 15 lakh. However, Madhya Pradesh has not made any announcement for its players. Sonu Golkar, General Secretary and coach of Cricket Association for the Blind Madhya Pradesh, said, “Kranti Gaur received calls from the Prime Minister and leaders immediately after winning. But our daughters have not even got an appointment.” Coach raises concern over discrimination Golkar, a former Indian blind cricketer, said, “No politician ever called me personally even after three World Cups. Today, I will fight for these girls. They also belong to this country. Are they being ignored just because they are disabled?” He added, “Without a special sports policy for disabled athletes, the situation will not improve. Ignoring these girls is discrimination.” Villages celebrate, politicians absent After returning home, the players were honoured by their villagers. Sunita Sarathe, the all-rounder who took the most wickets in the tournament, said, “MLAs and MPs called to congratulate us, but no one came to meet us. It felt good to see Kranti Gaur being honoured, but why are we ignored?” Durga Yevle from Betul added, “I made three run-outs and two stumpings. No call, no award. I hope the Chief Minister calls soon; otherwise, it will be very disappointing. Our families depend on us. A job would change our lives.” Sushma Patel of Damoh said, “This was our first World Cup, and we brought the trophy home. Normal players get honoured immediately, but we are being discriminated against.” Historic win against 6 teams The first Blind Women’s Cricket T20 World Cup included six countries: India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Australia, and the USA. Matches started on 11 November in New Delhi, with some played in Bengaluru. The final was held in Colombo, Sri Lanka. India chased Nepal’s target of 115 runs and won by 7 wickets, losing only three wickets in 12.1 overs. Sunita Sarathe played a key role, taking Nepal’s first wicket with a throw. She was the team’s all-rounder, contributing both with bat and ball.