BFI Official Told Me to ‘Shut Up, Lower Your Head & Do as We Say’: Olympic Medallist Lovlina
In a shocking incident, Olympic bronze medal-winning boxer Lovlina Borgohain has accused BFI executive director Col Arun Malik of humiliating her and undermining her achievements during a Zoom meeting attended by SAI and TOPS officials. The incident has sent shockwaves through the sports community, with many calling for an inquiry into the matter.
According to reports, Lovlina was part of a meeting called by the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) to discuss her future in the sport. However, the meeting took a drastic turn when Col Arun Malik allegedly told her to “shut up, lower your head and do as we say.” Lovlina described the words as not only disrespectful but also carrying an alarming tone of gender-discriminatory dominance.
The incident has sparked outrage among fans and fellow athletes, who are calling for an immediate inquiry into the matter. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has also taken notice of the incident and has announced that it will conduct an inquiry into the allegations.
Lowlina, who won the bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics last year, has been a vocal advocate for women’s rights in sports. She has been a part of several initiatives aimed at promoting women’s participation in boxing and has been a role model for young girls and women across the country.
In a statement, Lovlina said, “His words weren’t only disrespectful but also carried an alarming tone of gender-discriminatory dominance. I was taken aback by his behavior and felt humiliated. I didn’t expect such behavior from a senior official of the BFI.”
Lowlina’s accusations have raised several questions about the culture within the BFI and the way women are treated in the organization. Many have called for the BFI to take immediate action and launch an inquiry into the matter.
The incident has also sparked a debate about the treatment of women in sports. Many have pointed out that such behavior is unacceptable and has no place in any organization, let alone a sports federation.
The IOA has announced that it will conduct an inquiry into the allegations and has promised to take appropriate action if the allegations are found to be true.
In a statement, IOA Secretary General, Ajay Singh, said, “We take all allegations of misconduct seriously and will conduct a thorough inquiry into the matter. We will take appropriate action if the allegations are found to be true.”
The incident has also raised questions about the role of the SAI and TOPS officials who were present during the meeting. Many have called for them to take responsibility and apologize for their inaction during the incident.
The BFI has yet to comment on the matter, but many have called for Col Arun Malik to be suspended pending an inquiry.
The incident is a stark reminder of the need for greater awareness and education about gender equality and respect in sports. As Lovlina’s case shows, such behavior has no place in any organization, and those who engage in it must be held accountable.
As the sports community continues to grapple with the aftermath of the incident, one thing is clear: it is time for a change. It is time for organizations like the BFI to take a hard look at themselves and their treatment of women. It is time for us to recognize that respect and equality are not just ideals, but fundamental rights that must be protected.
