Hussain Shah, the first Pakistani boxer to clinch an individual international medal, is still waiting for a plot of land promised to him 35 years ago after winning a bronze at the South Korean Olympics. Despite his significant achievement, the pledge made by the previous Pakistani government has not been fulfilled.
Residing in Japan for many years, Shah shared his disappointment with Independent Urdu over the unfulfilled promise. He revealed that he had even paid a registration fee of 15,000 rupees in anticipation of receiving the plot. However, upon inquiring about the land, he discovered it had been occupied by someone else.
Originally from Malir, Karachi, Shah highlighted that while the Pakistan Sports Federation awarded him 25,000 rupees and a private Pakistani donor contributed an additional 25,000, other promised rewards were never delivered. Notably, Karachi Electric Supply Corporation had announced a reward for him that was also not received.
Shah’s journey to Olympic success began in challenging circumstances. Born in Lyari, Karachi, he faced hardships after the death of his mother and subsequent family changes, which led him to spend nights on the streets. His boxing career took off when he joined Pakistan Railways and later won national competitions in 1983. This victory earned him an invitation to join the national boxing camp, setting the stage for his participation in the South Asian Olympic Games and his historic win in 1988.
The situation starkly contrasts with the recent celebration for Arshad Nadeem, who received significant accolades and a warm welcome after winning a gold medal in the javelin throw at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
