BFI Official Told Me to ‘Shut Up, Lower Your Head & Do as We Say’: Olympic Medallist Lovlina
In a shocking revelation, Olympic bronze medal-winning boxer Lovlina Borgohain has accused the executive director of the Boxing Federation of India (BFI), Col Arun Malik, of humiliating her and undermining her achievements during a Zoom meeting. The meeting, which was attended by officials from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), has sparked outrage and raised questions about the treatment of athletes in Indian sports.
According to Lovlina, Col Malik’s behavior was not only disrespectful but also carried an alarming tone of gender-discriminatory dominance. In an interview with the Indian Express, Lovlina shared her disturbing experience, saying, “He told me to ‘shut up, lower your head and do as we say’. His words weren’t only disrespectful but also carried an alarming tone of gender-discriminatory dominance.”
Lovlina’s accusation has triggered an inquiry by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), which has promised to take strict action against anyone found guilty of disrespecting athletes. The IOA has also sought a report from the BFI on the matter, emphasizing the need to maintain a respectful and professional environment for athletes.
This incident is not an isolated case, and Lovlina’s experience highlights the systemic issues that athletes face in Indian sports. Many athletes have come forward to share their own stories of mistreatment and disrespect from officials and coaches, which can have a profound impact on their mental health and performance.
The incident also raises questions about the accountability of officials and the lack of support systems for athletes. Lovlina’s experience is a stark reminder that even athletes who have achieved great success on the international stage can be subjected to disrespect and humiliation by those who are supposed to support them.
The IOA’s inquiry and the BFI’s response to the incident will be closely watched, and it is imperative that they take concrete action to ensure that such incidents do not recur. The IOA must also work towards creating a culture of respect and inclusivity within Indian sports, where athletes are treated with dignity and respect.
The incident has also sparked a wider conversation about gender discrimination and the need for greater representation and empowerment of women in Indian sports. Lovlina’s experience is a powerful reminder that gender discrimination is a pervasive issue that affects not just athletes but also women in all walks of life.
In conclusion, Lovlina Borgohain’s accusation against Col Arun Malik is a wake-up call for Indian sports, highlighting the need for accountability, respect, and inclusivity. It is imperative that we work towards creating a culture of respect and empathy, where athletes are treated as equals and supported in their journey to excellence.
