Title: BFI official told me to ‘shut up, lower your head & do as we say’: Olympic medallist Lovlina
The world of sports is often touted as a meritocratic arena where talent and hard work are the only factors that matter. However, the recent allegations made by Olympic bronze medal-winning boxer Lovlina Borgohain against a senior official of the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) suggest that this is far from the truth. In a shocking revelation, Lovlina has accused BFI executive director Col Arun Malik of humiliating her and undermining her achievements during a Zoom meeting that was attended by officials from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).
The incident took place during a meeting to discuss Lovlina’s preparations for the upcoming Commonwealth Games and the Asian Championships. According to Lovlina, Col Malik’s behavior was not only disrespectful but also carried an alarming tone of gender-discriminatory dominance. “He told me to ‘shut up, lower your head and do as we say’,” Lovlina revealed in an interview with the Indian Express.
It is unacceptable that a senior official of the BFI would speak to a national champion in such a manner. Lovlina’s achievements on the international stage, including her bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics, are a testament to her dedication and hard work. For a senior official to belittle her and undermine her achievements is not only humiliating but also demotivating.
What is even more disturbing is that Col Malik’s words were not just disrespectful but also carried a tone of gender-discriminatory dominance. Lovlina’s allegations suggest that Col Malik’s behavior was not just a one-off incident but rather a reflection of a deeper culture of sexism and patriarchy within the BFI.
The incident has also raised questions about the kind of environment that is being created for Indian athletes. The BFI and other national sports federations are responsible for providing a conducive environment for athletes to train and compete. However, incidents like these suggest that there is a long way to go before Indian athletes feel safe and respected.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has always emphasized the importance of creating a safe and respectful environment for athletes. The IOC’s Charter states that “the practice of sport is a human right” and that “every individual has the right to participate in sport, without discrimination of any kind”.
The BFI needs to take immediate action to address Lovlina’s allegations and ensure that such incidents do not happen again. The BFI should also take steps to create a safe and respectful environment for all its athletes, regardless of their gender or background.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has also announced an inquiry into the matter. The IOA’s secretary-general, Adille Sumariwalla, has promised to take “stern action” against Col Malik if the allegations are found to be true. The IOA’s inquiry is a welcome step, but it is also important that the BFI takes concrete action to ensure that such incidents do not happen again.
The incident has also raised questions about the accountability of senior officials in Indian sports. It is unacceptable that Col Malik was able to speak to Lovlina in such a manner without any consequences. The BFI and the IOA need to ensure that senior officials are held accountable for their actions and that athletes are protected from such behavior.
In conclusion, Lovlina’s allegations against Col Malik are a wake-up call for the BFI and the IOA. The incident highlights the need for a culture of respect and inclusivity in Indian sports. The BFI and the IOA need to take concrete action to address Lovlina’s allegations and ensure that such incidents do not happen again.
