Soorma emerges as a bright star amidst controversy at the Asian Para Games

India's participation in the Asian Para Games started off on a controversial note as three athletes were disqualified from the F53 men's discus throw final for allegedly arriving late in the call room. The call room, where para-athletes are expected to wait before the competition, had a 50-minute prior arrival requirement. The Indian team claimed they reached on time but were called outside for a last-minute check of their throwing stands (wheelchairs). When they returned, they were declared late and denied entry. A protest was lodged, but it was rejected.

ALSO READ: Dennerby announces 22-member squad for AFC Olympic qualifiers round 2

Despite this controversy, India managed to secure 17 medals on the first day of the competition, including six gold, six silver, and five bronze medals. India currently stands in fourth place on the points table, following China, Iran, and Uzbekistan.

Achievments in other Sports

Among the medal winners, Avani Lekhara achieved a Games record with a gold in shooting, Ankur Dhama won gold in the T11 5000m event, and Shailesh Kumar secured the gold in the men's T63 high jump, setting a Games record. Mariyappan Thangavelu also won silver in the high jump event. The trio of Dharambir, Pranav Soorma, and Anantram, who were disqualified earlier, were expected to have a good chance of sweeping the podium in the discus throw final but were unable to compete due to the disqualification.

ALSO READ: IOA President Usha aims to resolve CEO issue, hopes for colleague support