'Neither CM nor sports minister contacted me; received offers from Tamil Nadu'; Asian Games medalist Sreeshankar lashes out

PALAKKAD: Malayali long jumper Murali Sreeshankar alleged facing ignorance from the state government despite his heroics in the Asian Games. Sreeshankar stated that neither the Chief Minister, the Sports Minister, nor anyone else from the government has contacted him so far.

Sreeshankar drew parallels, saying that states including Tamil Nadu have already awarded the announced cash prizes to their athletes, whereas he has received no communication from Kerala. Sreeshankar pointed out that the cash awards and benefits offered in Kerala are comparatively low, adding that Manipur is the only state that offers lower rewards than Kerala.

Sreeshankar confirmed receiving offers from the Tamil Nadu government and said he might consider relocating, especially with the Olympics approaching. The Tamil Nadu government implemented various schemes for athletes through its Sports Development Authority, whereas no such schemes exist for athletes from Kerala. Substantial funds are required for expenses such as training and travel, yet no assistance is provided by the state government. Sreeshankar also pointed out that the government had not even repaired the local track.