Indian para-shooters Sandeep Kumar and Aakash staged a protest against the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) in New Delhi. They raised concerns over alleged unfair selection practices. They also questioned a last-minute policy change ahead of the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games.
The athletes gathered outside the ITC Maurya hotel on Thursday, October 8. At the same time, the PCI was holding the official send-off ceremony for the Indian contingent there. Both athletes compete in the SH1 para-shooting category. They held placards to voice their concerns over the selection process.
Japan will host the 5th Asian Para Games 2026 from October 18 to 24. The event brings together para-athletes from across Asia.
PCI Responds to the Indian Para-Shooters Protest
In response, PCI president Devendra Jhajharia said the committee stays in regular contact with athletes. He also said the committee had already discussed their concerns.
Speaking to reporters, Jhajharia said athletes remain the organisation’s top priority. However, he felt the protest was unnecessary because of the ongoing talks between the committee and the athletes.
Overall, the Indian para-shooters protest has put the spotlight on athlete selection and policy decisions. As a result, these questions now hang over a major international para-sport event.
Indian Contingent Flagged Off for Asian Para Games
Earlier, Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya unveiled the new Team India jersey. He then formally flagged off the Indian contingent for the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games.
The PCI organised the send-off ceremony. Prominent para-athletes and sports officials, including Jhajharia, attended the event.
In addition, the event follows India’s 85-medal campaign at the Asian Games in the same region. Read more: India at Aichi-Nagoya 2026: The Numbers Behind 85 Medals.
Meanwhile, Paralympic champions Pramod Bhagat and Bhavina Patel will carry India’s flag at the Opening Ceremony on October 18.
As the Asian Para Games approach, the Indian contingent will aim for strong performances in Japan. At the same time, the para-shooters have brought selection transparency into focus.
The allegations about selection practices and policy changes come from the protesting athletes. We have included the PCI’s response based on statements attributed to its president.