J P Nautiyal Omitted; 9 of 13 Shooters Protest, Risk Missing Games

The team’s selected shooters voiced dissatisfaction over the omission of chief coach J P Nautiyal, and the sidelining of assistant Shivam Tyagi—an unexpected move that sent ripples through the squad. Bhakti Sharma, a deaf and non‑speaking shooter, broke down during the meeting, her voice echoing the frustration of the group.

But the drama was only the tip of the iceberg. The ministry finally cleared the pending disciplines late on Monday evening, granting approval for 128 athletes—90 men and 38 women—across eight sports. The clearance came after a frantic scramble to announce final sanctions for para badminton, table tennis and boccia, which were scheduled to depart for Japan on Tuesday.

Yet the relief was short‑lived. Kit distribution stalls left athletes returning empty‑handed, and several competitors, including Chirag Baretha and Manisha Patel, remained uncertified. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court is set to hear a challenge from five para‑cyclists who argue that only one athlete was retained despite six recommendations.

So, India’s para shooting contingent faces a tight squeeze: a day to adjust gear after arriving in Nagoya, a looming classification check on October 16, and the looming threat of a last‑minute withdrawal that could cost the team valuable medals.

Next up, the Indian squad is slated to leave for Nagoya on Tuesday evening—if the final clearance slips through, they’ll have to scramble to get to the Games in time.