Karnataka Sports Quota Delay: Athletes Lose Out

In Karnataka, the promised two percent reservation for sportspersons in government departments has yet to materialize, causing significant distress among athletes. Recruitment notifications for various positions, including teaching roles, have been issued without incorporating this crucial sports quota. This omission means that eligible athletes, who have represented the state and nation, are being denied opportunities.

The delay stems from the final order for the reservation still being awaited from the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR). Officials from the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports (DYES) have reportedly submitted all necessary documents to DPAR, but the process has stalled. This has left athletes like former kabaddi captain Gagan Gowda concerned about their future employment prospects and eligibility windows closing.

Stories of hardship emerge, with former Karnataka football captain Karthik Swamy moving to Hyderabad for a job after his state team's Santosh Trophy victory. Several players from that championship-winning squad remain jobless. Athletes emphasize that their competitive careers are often short-lived and age-limited, making each recruitment cycle critical. They urgently appeal for the government to expedite the final notification and operationalize the reservation before more athletes lose their chance.