Olympian's father demands ₹5 crore, a flat, and shooting arena in son's name

Olympian Swapnil Kusale's father, Suresh Kusale, has expressed deep disappointment over the Maharashtra government’s decision to award only ₹2 crore for his son’s bronze medal in the men's 50m rifle 3 positions event at the Paris Olympics. Speaking to reporters in Pune, Suresh highlighted the stark contrast between the rewards given to athletes from different states, particularly criticizing Haryana's generous scheme, which awards ₹6 crore to gold medalists, ₹4 crore to silver medalists, and ₹2.5 crore to bronze medalists.

Suresh pointed out that Swapnil, who became Maharashtra's second individual Olympic medallist in 72 years, deserves better recognition for his achievement. He stated, “Why does the state form such criteria when Swapnil has made history for Maharashtra?” His demands include an increase in the prize money to ₹5 crore, a flat near Balewadi Sports Stadium for easier access to practice facilities, and the naming of the shooting arena after his son.

Despite the Maharashtra government announcing an award of ₹1 crore shortly after the Olympics, Suresh lamented that there has been no official communication regarding this amount. While state minister Chandrakant Patil mentioned plans for a "special package" and a significant government post for Swapnil, Suresh remains skeptical, especially after witnessing the swift recognition awarded to cricketers who won the T20 World Cup.

As Haryana promptly transferred the award money to their athletes, Suresh emphasized the need for Maharashtra to treat its Olympic medalists with similar respect and acknowledgment. The disparity in treatment between athletes from the two states has raised questions about how the Maharashtra government values sports achievements, particularly for those coming from humble backgrounds like Swapnil's.