Chess Prodigy Mallika Handa Bags Ninth National Gold, Still Awaits Government Job

Mallika Handa, the celebrated hearing and speech impaired chess player, has once again made history by clinching her ninth gold medal at the National Chess Championship for the Deaf, held in New Delhi from September 17 to 21, 2026. This latest victory solidifies her remarkable 14-year career and also secures her spot to represent India at the Winter Deaflympics in Austria in January 2027. Despite her consistent national and international triumphs, including multiple gold medals and a National Disability Award in 2019, Mallika's persistent demand for a stable government job remains unfulfilled. Her mother, Renu Handa, has frequently voiced frustration over years of assurances from political leaders and ministers without any concrete employment resolution, highlighting the ongoing struggle faced by many specially-abled athletes in India to receive adequate recognition and support. While India's government has provisions and reservation quotas for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities under the RPWD Act 2016, the practical implementation for accomplished sportspersons like Mallika appears to be a significant challenge. The focus now shifts to Mallika's preparations for the Winter Deaflympics, where she aims to bring further glory to the nation. However, the recurring question of a government job continues to shadow her achievements. Her case underscores a broader need for clearer and more effective policies to ensure deserving athletes with disabilities receive the employment and financial security they earn through their dedication and success. What steps will the government take next to address this long-standing issue for a national icon?