Former Indian hockey captain and leader of Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Dilip Tirkey on Thursday raised the issue of the late Mohd. Shahid in the Rajya Sabha and sought government assurance of support to his family.
Speaking during Zero Hour, Tirkey said Shahid was a role model for several generations of hockey players and recalled his contributions to Indian sports. Shahid was a member of the 1980 gold-winning team at the Moscow Olympics and considered one of the greatest players of all times.
“Except for cricket, we are forgetting our sports stars,” said the MP and was supported by several members of the House.
“I think the entire House agrees with you,” Deputy Chairman P.J. Kurien said, while MoS Parliamentary Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said the government had taken care of the medical expenses and also announced a financial assistance of Rs. 10 lakh.
Tirkey also sought support for Shahid’s family, saying they should not face any hardships. Shahid’s son is still pursuing his graduation.
Congress leader Satyavrat Chaturvedi and several others wanted an obituary to the Olympic gold medallist to come from the Chair with Kurien assuring the sentiments would be conveyed to Vice-President Hamid Ansari, who is also the Chairman of the House.
The 56-year old Padma Shri and Arjuna awardee Shahid passed away on Wednesday.
