Budhwa Oraon changes track to enter politics

RANCHI: Accidentally changing tracks cost him a medal in the Seoul Asian Games 28 years ago, but Budhwa Oraon’s switch to politics is a well planned move. He is the first sportsperson to contest polls in the state.
The 54-year-old former international track and field athlete was named JMM candidate from the Mandar constituency, which goes to the polls in the second phase on December 2.Oraon will be up against state Trinamool Congress state president Bandhu Tirkey.
Oraon represented India in 800 and 1500 metres race categories in the 1986 Asian Games held in Seoul, South Korea. Oraon, in striking distance of a medal, was disqualified after he accidentally entered another lane. He dominated national police games in track and field for more than a decade and has been the general secretary of Jharkhand Athletics Association (JOA) for nearly 15 years.
Oraon said he will work to harness young sporting talents if voted to power. Setting up improved infrastructure at grassroot level is also a part of his agenda. "Jharkhand not only has great talents in hockey, but has good track and field athletes who can make the cut for India at international level," he said.
Oraon looks to draw inspiration from former Indian shooter Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, who became a minister of state in the Union cabinet earlier this week and plans to put his years of experience in sports administration if opportunity comes his way.
Oraon’s entry into politics can well be the start of a trend among sportspersons. "Only an athlete can understand the problems of others, rather than politicians who understand nothing," former Indian women’s hockey captain Asunta Lakra said.
Hockey Jharkhand president Bholanath Singh said Oraon’s transition, if successful, can pave the way for more sportspersons to enter administration. Oraon, however chose to focus on the job at hand and not in results. "It will be a tough fight, but I am up for it," he signed off.