Signature campaign begins for Bharat Ratna to Dhyan Chand

New Delhi: A signature campaign has begun to press the government to confer Bharat Ratna, India`s highest civilian award, on legendary hockey player Dhyan Chand with the Indian Olympic Association giving support to it.

Ashok Kumar, the son of legendary Dhyan Chand, today said that more than 30 Arjuna Awardees and Olympians have signed on the letter prepared by him and to be sent to the Home Ministry. "More than 30 Arjuna Awardees and Olympians have signed the letter recommending conferment of Bharat Ratna to Dhyan Chand. What we are saying is that if any sportsperson is to be given Bharat Ratna the starting point should be from Major Dhyan Chand," said Ashok Kumar. "I am hoping to get signatures of some more Olympians and will then submit to the Home Ministry with copies to Sports Ministry also and other sports authorities," he said. Indian Olympic Association Secretary General Randhir Singh said that the IOA would support the move. "We will support the move. Dhyan Chand deserves to get the Bharat Ratna," Randhir said. PTI