In a strong push for inclusivity, the Delhi High Court has directed the Central government to open the gates of the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award to deaf sportspersons — a category that has, until now, been shut out entirely from consideration.
The order came in response to a plea by decorated deaf wrestler Virender Singh and others, who argued that while para-athletes are eligible for the nation’s top sporting recognition, deaf athletes remain invisible under the current framework.
Justice Sachin Datta noted that the existing criteria for the 2025 Khel Ratna make no mention of deaf athletes, effectively barring them from even applying. The Court called this omission discriminatory and contrary to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which recognizes hearing impairment as a disability on par with physical or locomotor disabilities.
“The absence of a mechanism for deaf sportspersons to even submit applications creates a discriminatory regime,” the Court remarked, urging the government to swiftly establish clear eligibility norms.
Until the new framework is in place, the Court has also ordered the extension of the application deadline for this year’s awards — ensuring that deaf athletes are not excluded by bureaucratic default.
The case, which marks a pivotal moment for sports inclusivity in India, shines a light on the long-standing silence in recognition for deaf athletes who have represented the country on global stages but remained unheard in its highest honours.
