
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 BFI executive director Col Arun Malik of humiliating her and undermining her achievements during a Zoom meeting. The meeting, which was attended by SAI and TOPS officials, has left the boxers’ community reeling in shock.
According to Lovlina, Col Malik’s words were not only disrespectful but also carried an alarming tone of gender-discriminatory dominance. The incident has sparked outrage among athletes and sports enthusiasts alike, with many calling for immediate action against the BFI official.
The incident took place during a meeting between Lovlina and the BFI officials to discuss her preparation for the upcoming tournaments. Lovlina, who won the bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics, had been vocal about her struggles with the BFI and its officials. However, she never expected to be treated with such disrespect and disdain.
“I was told to ‘shut up, lower your head and do as we say’,” Lovlina told the Indian Express. “His words weren’t only disrespectful, but also carried an alarming tone of gender-discriminatory dominance. I felt belittled and humiliated.”
Lavlina’s allegations have sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for Col Malik’s immediate removal from his position. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has announced an inquiry into the matter, stating that such behavior is unacceptable and runs counter to the values of sportsmanship and respect.
The IOA has also condemned Col Malik’s behavior, stating that it has no place in sports. “Such behavior is not acceptable and is contrary to the values of sportsmanship and respect,” the IOA said in a statement. “We will conduct a thorough inquiry into the matter and take appropriate action.”
The incident has also sparked a debate about the treatment of women athletes in India. Lovlina’s allegations have highlighted the need for greater respect and support for women athletes, who often face significant challenges and biases in their pursuit of excellence.
Lavlina’s story is not an isolated one. Many women athletes in India have spoken out about the discrimination and harassment they face from officials and coaches. The incident has sparked a renewed call for greater awareness and action to address these issues.
The Indian government has also come out in support of Lovlina, with Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Thakur stating that such behavior is unacceptable and has no place in sports. “We will not tolerate such behavior and will take appropriate action to ensure that our athletes are treated with respect and dignity,” Thakur said.
The incident has also sparked a debate about the role of the BFI and its officials. Lovlina’s allegations have raised questions about the accountability and transparency of the BFI, and whether it is capable of providing a safe and respectful environment for its athletes.
The IOA’s inquiry into the matter is expected to provide some answers. The inquiry will examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the appropriate action to be taken against Col Malik.
In the meantime, Lovlina’s allegations have sent a strong message to athletes and officials alike. The incident has highlighted the need for greater respect and support for women athletes, and the importance of creating a safe and respectful environment for all athletes.
As Lovlina said, “I am not just fighting for myself, but for all the women athletes who have faced similar discrimination and harassment. I hope that my story will inspire others to speak out and demand respect and dignity.”