Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa challenged Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage in Parliament on Wednesday (21) regarding the non-payment of a Rs. 50 million financial reward to Sri Lankan javelin star Rumesha Tharanga.
Premadasa pressed the government on why the decorated international athlete had not received the funds, while also pointing out that an announced allocation of Rs. 800,000 to construct an access road to the athlete's residence had failed to materialise.
He further expressed concern over reports that the government intended to revise the existing scheme to reduce prize money for successful sports personalities.
Responding to the allegations, Minister Gamage denied that any standing official circular entitled the athlete to Rs. 50 million, clarifying that the previous payout arrangement was a one-off Cabinet approval tied to a specific year following a Sports Council recommendation.
The Minister said that a new cabinet-approved framework had been established to handle monetary rewards for achievements in 2024 and 2025, with a separate proposal currently being drafted for 2026 honors.
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