However, Indian shooter Manu Bhaker has admitted to her error that landed her out of the nominations of the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. This granted me a wave of trolling across social media platforms.
What Happened?
Olympic shooter Manu Bhaker was missing from the Khel Ratna nomination list. She then admitted on X (formerly Twitter) that there was likely some oversight in the process.
India’s focus has always been focused on winning medals rather than award pursuit, she told Reuters in an interview. But critics online went on a sharp critique of her remarks.
Manu Bhaker’s Statement
In her message, Manu outlined:
She wants to wear the Indian jersey and perform at her best.
However, awards do not make her major goal of life.
We’re trying to fix the nomination lapse.
The never wavering inspiration to create success for India drives her.
Departing UK interior minister Priti Patel urged people not to speculate or spread rumors about her, as reported by AFP.
While her admission added up to accountability, it attracted online trolls.
Social Media Trolls Take Aim
Manu’s backlash ensued. The opportunity was used by critics to mock her and her team’s handling of the matter. On some, it’s blamed for tarnishing her image through poor PR management.
Examples of troll comments included:
“Shooting star dimming out?”
“Better PR next time, maybe?”
Don’t blame others for your error.
Support from Her Father
Manu’s father Ram Kishan Bhaker was frustrated with the way his daughter has been treated. He also attacked authorities for not understanding that she was an achiever.
Manu disheartened, wondering whether she had been too dedicated to sports, to representing India? But his strong words seemed overly emotional.
Manu Bhaker’s Achievements
India’s most celebrated shooter is Manu Bhaker. She clinched two historic bronze medals in the individual 10m air pistol and mixed team events at the Paris Olympics 2024.
Her journey encourages a lot of young athletes from India.
Lessons from the Incident
That episode illustrates how it is critical to do public narratives well. Manu’s work is a measure of what she has done, but the way they handled this situation was a distraction from her work.
And Manu was candid about revealing that it was her responsibility.
Looking Ahead
Despite the trolling, Manu Bhaker sticks to content. Fans have been reassured by her that she’ll be winning more medals for India.
This is a hurdle that will pass by for her supporters. Manu’s grit and work ethic are going to take her far in whatever position she takes on the world stage.
