Guwahati, Aug. 6: The Assam chapter of Special Olympics, Bharat, has expressed dissatisfaction that the state government has not accorded recognition and assistance to differently-abled athletes who have been winning medals at the Special Olympics for the past few years.

A team of athletes from Assam - Laxmi Kumari, 18, Aanyatam Rajkumar, 17, and Kabir Pritam Baruah, 18 - arrived at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport here today after participating in the Special Olympics World Summer Games 2015 held in Los Angeles, US. Laxmi won a gold and a silver medal in athletics, Aanyatam won a gold medal in swimming while Kabir finished in fourth position in athletics. Their coach accompanied them to the event.

The trio attend special schools for differently-abled students in the city. Laxmi is a student of Asha School, Aanyatam studies in South Point School while Kabir is a student of Ashadeep.

"It is a matter of pride that three differently-abled athletes from Assam have won medals at the Special Olympics World Summer Games this time. During the past few years, many special athletes have represented the country at these international games. It is time the state government gives recognition to these athletes," said Anjana Goswami, area director of the Assam chapter of Special Olympics, Bharat.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated the Indian contingent for winning 173 medals at the Special Olympics that was held from July 25 to August 2.

"It is a sad that differently-abled athletes are discriminated against in our state. But they are as talented as their normal counterparts and their contribution to sports should be acknowledged. While such athletes are felicitated and offered financial assistance in other states, our athletes remain deprived. Assistance by the state government will motivate them and help them in receiving better training. Last time, the state government had provided some cash prize to the winners though," said Goswami.

The Assam chapter that has been conducting special training camps for special athletes in different places during the past few years hopes the government as well as the public will acknowledge the contribution of such athletes and offer them better facilities.