Chennai, Sep 10: A few hours after Tamil Nadu-based Mariyappan Thangavelu scripted history at the ongoing Rio Paralympics, becoming the first Indian para-athlete to bag a gold medal in the men's high jump, several local political party leaders have congratulated Thangavelu. Chief minister J Jayalalithaa has announced Rs 2 crore for Thangavelu.
"I was delighted to learn that you have won a gold medal in the Paralympics currently being held in Rio De Janeiro. I understand that this is the first time an Indian has won a gold medal in the high jump event in the Paralympics. By leaping over a height of 1.89 metres, you have leapt into history and done both the nation and Tamil Nadu proud. Your achievement, overcoming several obstacles and hurdles, will inspire more and more children and youth to overcome adversities and to participate and strive for greater achievements. Kindly accept my heartiest congratulations on behalf of the people of Tamil Nadu on your splendid achievement," said Jayalalithaa in a statement.
"I am very happy to inform you that I have decided that the government of Tamil Nadu will award you a cash prize of Rs 2 crore on a par with Olympic Gold Medal winners from Tamil Nadu," the chief minister said.
"May you stand forth as a beacon of hope for all those striving to achieve success in their chosen fields overcoming all odds," Jayalalithaa added.
In a statement, opposition leader MK Stalin lauded Thangavelu. "My heartiest congratulations to Mariyappan for winning a gold medal at the Paralympics. Along with Mariyappan, Varun Singh Bhati has also created history in Paralympics by winning the bronze medal in the same category. I request the respective state governments and Union governments to recognise their achievements duly and enhance support for specially-baled athletes, so that they achieve higher and bring laurels to our country," said Stalin.
Similarly, former Union minister Anbumani Ramadoss has also lauded Thangavelu.
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