Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has responded to martial artist Shahzaib Rind’s public criticism over the government's failure to deliver promised financial support, assuring the athlete that the matter will be resolved immediately.

 

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Minister Tarar addressed Rind directly, saying, “Dear Shahzaib, there seems to be some miscommunication. We sincerely apologise for this unjustified delay. Sportsmen like you are our real heroes, and we value your achievements.”

 

 

He said the Prime Minister had taken “serious notice” of the situation and has ordered that the matter be resolved without further delay.

 

“The PM has further instructed that such mistakes must never happen in the future. We regret this unjustified delay and the inconvenience caused,” the minister added.

 

Shahzaib Rind, Pakistan’s reigning Karate Combat Lightweight World Champion and a six-time national Wushu champion, had earlier accused the country’s political leadership of dishonesty and neglect. 

 

He claimed that despite public announcements by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of a PKR 5 million cash prize and PKR 80 million in support for his training, he had received nothing even after 1.5 years.

 

Shahzaib recently extended his undefeated record to 8-0 after a commanding victory over Brazil’s Luis Rocha at KC 56, further cementing his legacy as one of the country's top fighters.