In a dramatic turn of events, Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia, shortly after announcing his intention to return his Padma Shri, was stopped at the Kartavya Path by Delhi Police officials when he tried to reach the Prime Minister's residence.
The motive behind Bajrang's journey was to personally deliver his award and letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His letter was a symbol of protest against the election of Sanjay Singh as the President of the Wrestling Federation of India. It was a gesture to express his dissent with the current state of affairs in the wrestling community.
Confronted by the police and barred from progressing further, Bajrang made a humble request to the officers. He asked if they could extend a helping hand by forwarding his letter to the Prime Minister, as he was denied entry.
In a gesture that spoke volumes, Bajrang, unable to hand over his accolade directly, left his Padma Shri award on the footpath near the barricades. This act of leaving his prestigious award in such a manner was not just symbolic but also served as a poignant message about his deep dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs.
Wrestler Bajrang Punia writes letter to PM Modi, says he's returning his Padma Shri award