BFI Official Told Me to ‘Shut Up, Lower Your Head & Do as We Say’: Olympic Medallist Lovlina
Lowlina Borgohain, the Olympic bronze medal-winning boxer, has made a shocking accusation against the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) executive director, Col Arun Malik. During a Zoom meeting attended by officials from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), Lovlina alleged that Col Malik humiliated her and undermined her achievements, leaving her feeling disrespected and belittled.
In a statement that has sent shockwaves throughout the sports fraternity, Lovlina claimed that Col Malik told her to “shut up, lower your head and do as we say,” with an “alarming tone of gender-discriminatory dominance.” The incident has sparked an inquiry by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), and Lovlina’s allegations have raised serious questions about the culture within the BFI and the treatment of its athletes.
Lowlina Borgohain’s Achievements
Before we delve into the controversy surrounding the Zoom meeting, it’s essential to acknowledge Lovlina’s impressive achievements in the world of boxing. The 24-year-old from Assam won the bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, becoming the first Indian woman to do so in boxing. Her impressive performance earned her widespread recognition and praise, both domestically and internationally.
The Zoom Meeting: A Disrespectful Encounter
According to Lovlina, the Zoom meeting was called to discuss her training and preparation for the upcoming international tournaments. However, the conversation quickly turned sour when Col Malik allegedly began belittling her achievements and questioning her dedication to the sport. Lovlina claimed that Col Malik was dismissive of her hard work and dedication, telling her to “shut up, lower your head and do as we say.”
Lowlina described the tone used by Col Malik as “alarming” and “gender-discriminatory,” stating that it was clear that he was trying to assert his dominance over her. She felt disrespected and humiliated, and the encounter left her feeling demotivated and demoralized.
The IOA Inquiry: A Chance to Address the Culture of Disrespect
In response to Lovlina’s allegations, the Indian Olympic Association has launched an inquiry into the matter. The IOA has promised to investigate the incident and take appropriate action against those found guilty of disrespecting Lovlina or creating a hostile environment.
The inquiry provides an opportunity for the IOA and the BFI to address the culture of disrespect and sexism that has been reported within the organization. It is essential that those responsible for creating a toxic environment are held accountable and that measures are put in place to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Fallout: A Blow to the BFI’s Reputation
The allegations against Col Malik have dealt a significant blow to the BFI’s reputation. The organization has been under scrutiny for its handling of athletes and its treatment of women in particular. Lovlina’s allegations have sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for Col Malik’s resignation and for the BFI to take concrete action to address the culture of disrespect.
The incident has also raised questions about the BFI’s commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for its athletes. The organization’s failure to address the culture of disrespect and sexism has created a toxic environment that is detrimental to athletes’ mental and emotional well-being.
Conclusion
Lowlina Borgohain’s allegations against Col Arun Malik have sent shockwaves throughout the sports fraternity. The incident highlights the need for the BFI and the IOA to take concrete action to address the culture of disrespect and sexism within the organization. It is essential that those responsible for creating a toxic environment are held accountable, and that measures are put in place to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Lowlina’s achievements in the world of boxing are a testament to her hard work and dedication. She deserves to be treated with respect and dignity, and it is the responsibility of the BFI and the IOA to ensure that she and all athletes are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.
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