Two-time Paralympic Gold Medalist Devendra Jhajharia has ventured into the realm of politics as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) nominated him as their candidate for the Churu seat in the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections 2024. The announcement came as part of the BJP’s first list of candidates for the general elections, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to contest from Varanasi for the third consecutive time.
Devendra Jhajharia, renowned for his exceptional achievements in Para Javelin, has clinched the Paralympic Gold medal twice, first in 2004 at Athens and then in 2016 at Rio de Janeiro. His remarkable throw of 63.97 in the F44 category at Rio set a world record. Despite a silver medal at the 2021 Tokyo Paralympics, Jhajharia’s stellar performances have left an indelible mark.
The 42-year-old para-athlete’s inclusion in BJP’s list of 195 candidates is nothing short of a surprise. As the sole athlete among the contenders, Jhajharia is gearing up to represent the party in the fiercely contested Lok Sabha elections.
Apart from his Paralympic triumphs, Jhajharia has secured Gold (2013) and Silver (2015) in the F46 category at the World Para Athletics Championships. His prowess extends to the Asian Games, where he bagged a Silver medal in 2014 at Incheon. Recognising his outstanding contributions, the Indian government honored him with the Arjuna Award in 2004, followed by the Padma Shri (2012) and Padma Bhushan (2022). In 2017, he received the prestigious Dhyanchand Khel Ratna Award.
Devendra Jhajharia’s foray into politics aligns with his nomination for the post of President at the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI). As the sole candidate, his election, scheduled for March 9, seems imminent. If successful, Jhajharia will succeed Deepa Malik, who has held the position since 2020.
Jhajharia’s journey from a humble background in Churu district, where he will now contest the Lok Sabha elections, is marked by resilience and determination. Overcoming adversity, he pursued the javelin throw, catching the attention of Dronacharya Awardee Ripudaman Singh. Despite the amputation of his left hand at a young age, Jhajharia’s tenacity propelled him to sporting greatness.
Devendra Jhajharia’s dual role as a para-athlete and a political aspirant adds an intriguing chapter to his illustrious life story. As the BJP entrusts him with the responsibility of representing Churu in the Lok Sabha, Jhajharia’s journey continues to inspire, transcending the boundaries of sports and politics. The upcoming elections will witness whether the para champion can secure victory in a different arena, carrying the hopes of his constituency and the legacy of his sporting achievements.
