'Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, 2025' found to be discriminatory against deaf sports-persons

Delhi High Court Directs Revision of Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Criteria to Include Deaf Sports-persons Court finds existing award criteria discriminatory, violating Article 14 of the Indian Constitution, and mandates inclusion of deaf athletes.

The Delhi High Court has issued a landmark judgment directing the Union of India to amend the criteria for the 'Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, 2025' to include deaf sports-persons, recognizing the current exclusion as discriminatory. The judgment delivered by Justice Sachin Datta highlights the violation of Article 14 of the Constitution of India, which guarantees equality before the law.

The case, titled "Virender Singh v. Union of India," was brought before the court by Virender Singh and others, challenging the criteria under the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award scheme. The petitioners argued that the scheme was unfair to deaf sports-persons compared to para sports-persons, as it did not provide them an opportunity to apply or be considered for the award.

The court examined the scheme's criteria, which heavily weighted medals won in international championships, such as the Olympics and Paralympics, but omitted equivalent recognition for achievements by deaf athletes. The exclusion was seen as a violation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which prohibits discrimination against individuals based on their disabilities, whether hearing impairment or physical.

Justice Datta emphasized that the lack of a provision for deaf sports-persons in the award criteria creates a discriminatory environment, contrary to the inclusive spirit of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act. Consequently, the court directed the respondents to frame an appropriate criterion for deaf athletes promptly, ensuring they are able to apply for the prestigious award for the year 2025.

The judgment mandates the extension of application deadlines to accommodate the inclusion of deaf sports-persons, ensuring they have equal opportunity to be considered for India's highest sporting honor. The court has scheduled a follow-up hearing on January 19, 2026, allowing the petitioners to file a rejoinder to the respondents' affidavit.

This decision marks a significant step towards achieving equality in sports recognition, reinforcing the constitutional mandate of non-discrimination and equal opportunity for all athletes, irrespective of their disabilities.

Bottom Line:

The scheme for the 'Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, 2025' was found to be discriminatory against deaf sports-persons in comparison to para sports-persons, violating Article 14 of the Constitution of India.

Statutory provision(s): Constitution of India, 1950 Article 14, Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016

Virender Singh v. Union of India, (Delhi) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2804209