Against all odds, Rajouri’s Yasir wins Asian Boxing Championship in Uzbekistan

Rajouri, May 14: In an inspiring story of courage, struggle and determination, 15-year-old Mohammad Yasir, a homeless boxer from Rajouri district, has scripted history by winning the Asian Boxing Championship held in Uzbekistan.

Yasir clinched the prestigious title in the U-15 category after defeating the host nation Uzbekistan in the finals played on Thursday.

Representing India at the international event, the young boxer displayed remarkable skill and resilience to secure victory and bring laurels to the country as well as Jammu and Kashmir.

As news of Yasir’s victory reached Rajouri, jubilant scenes were witnessed across the town and large numbers of people gathered outside the temporary accommodation of Yasir’s family, dancing to the tunes of drums, bursting crackers and celebrating the historic achievement with immense enthusiasm.

Locals termed the victory a proud moment for the entire region and expressed hope that the young boxer would one day bring an Olympic gold medal to the nation.

Mohammad Yasir’s achievement carries a deeper emotional significance as the teenager comes from an extremely underprivileged background.

Yasir, along with his family, has been living in a dilapidated government building in Kheora area of Rajouri after being rendered homeless several years ago.

The family comprises his mother Naseem Akhter, younger brother Mohammad Fareed (14) and sister Fatima (7). His father, Mohammad Nadeem, who worked as a labourer, passed away in 2018.

The family earlier resided in Bela Colony of Rajouri town, where their house was demolished during an anti-encroachment drive in 2018, leaving them homeless and family believes that Yasir’s father Mohammad Nadeem died due to illness because of trauma faced after demolition of house.

Subsequently, after demolition of house, they were shifted to an old government structure which locals describe as unsafe, unhygienic and on the verge of collapse.

Facing severe financial hardships, Yasir had to discontinue his studies at the age of 11 and started working as a domestic helper in different houses. He reportedly cooked meals, washed utensils and clothes to support his family financially.

A turning point in his life came nearly three years ago when a boxing training facility was established at Rajouri Sports Stadium under the Khelo India scheme. Boxing coach Ishtyaq Malik identified the talent of Yasir and his younger brother Mohammad Fareed and inducted them into professional training.

Despite enduring years of poverty, homelessness and personal tragedy, Yasir continued his relentless pursuit of excellence in boxing. His victory at the Asian Championship is now being hailed as a symbol of perseverance and determination against all odds.

Residents and social organisations have urged the administration to provide proper housing and financial assistance to the family, stating that such exceptional talent deserves full support and encouragement from the government.