Justices Madhav Jamdar and Pravin Patil of the HC’s Kolhapur bench stated in their order on April 15 that it is undisputed Jadhav, a wrestler from Maharashtra, is recognized as India’s first individual Olympic medalist.
The court was addressing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) submitted by the ‘Kusteeveer Khashaba Jadhav Foundation’, established by his son, Ranjeet Jadhav.
The PIL requested that the Ministry of Home Affairs (Padma Awards Cell) reconsider their petition for the posthumous awarding of the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honor, to Khashaba Dadasaheb Jadhav.
Also Read: Iran-US War Live Updates
“The Union of India is directed to make an appropriate decision on or before May 4,” the HC commented, scheduling the case for further review on May 5.
If necessary, the state government shall promptly comply with any requirements, the court added.
Khashaba Jadhav, who passed away in 1984, achieved a bronze medal at the Helsinki Olympic Games in 1952. He was posthumously awarded the Arjuna Award in 2001.
The PIL asserted that the late wrestler’s family had made multiple representations to the government seeking recognition for him. When no response was received, the foundation approached the high court.
Also Read: Chief selector Ajit Agarkar’s contract renewed till next year
