New Delhi : Zee News’ recent exclusive story on former Asian Gold medallist late Makhan Singh, was hard hitting enough that it was even raised in Lok Sabha by BJP leader Sushma Swaraj. Makhan Singh was an athlete from Punjab who won number of gold medals in National Games and even defeated Milkha Singh in the 1962 National Games in Calcutta. He passed away in 2002 due to extreme poverty. His family is now going through all kinds of trauma and sufferings and is willing to auction his medals including his Arjuna Award.
Zee News’ coverage shook the heart of senior BJP leader, Sushma Swaraj, who raised the issue in the Lok Sabha where she demanded financial help not only to Makhan Singh’s family but also other athletes who are going through the same plight.
Sushma Swaraj said, “Zee News showed how Arjuna Awardee late Sardar Makhan Singh’s widow is now going to sell all his medals to combat poverty and for her survival. “
Sushma Swaraj also said that she was saddened to know about the condition of the family of a great athlete and asked the Sports Ministry to contact the family and provide adequate financial support immediately.
“There is story like Makhan Singh’s everyday in the media. Govt should take adequate steps to offer jobs and pensions to the award winner athletes and their families. If a huge country like India cannot honour its heroes then it is really a matter of shame for everybody. These heroes are inspiration for our young generation, but these type of stories will refrain our youngsters from joining sports in the future’’, added Sushma Swaraj.
Impact of Zee News’ story was such that just after four hours of airing the show, Indian Sports ministry & the Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Jitendra Singh took notice of the plight and offered immediate assistance to the family.
As a responsible fourth estate of democracy, Zee News through its sincere and responsible news has always been able to create an impact on people’s lives by raising their voice. Zee News, in line with its philosophy ‘Soch Badlo Desh Badlo’, always tries to represent people through its news and believes in bringing a positive change in India.
Sudhir Chaudhary, Editor, Zee News said, “We are glad that our news on such a genuine issue has not only made the people and leaders of India think but also act by helping Makhan Singh’s family. The story has also paved way for improving the lives of many other unsung heroes. As a responsible news channel, Zee News will continue showcasing many more stories of such heroes who are neglected and deprived of government support to lead a normal, rewarding life.’’
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