BENGALURU, Aug 26: Karnataka High Court today found substance in the claim of Para-athlete HN Girisha challenging the recommendation of Sania Mirza for the prestigious Khel Ratna award and issued notices to sports ministry and the tennis ace herself.
Justice AS Bopanna, who heard the case on a petition filed by Girisha, directed the respondents to reply to the notices within 15 days.
Sania was recommended for the country�s highest sporting honour by a government-appointed selection panel. The Sports Ministry has also given its approval on Sania getting the coveted award.
The President of India will confer Khel Ratna, Arjuna, Dronacharya and Dhyan Chand Awards to various sportspersons in a ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhawan on August 29.
In the High Court proceedings today, Justice Bopanna sought replies from the respondents as to why Girisha�s name was overlooked in favour of Sania, considering the points system being implemented by the central government. � PTI
