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 calls for an inquiry.
According to Lovlina, Col Malik’s behavior was not only disrespectful but also carried an alarming tone of gender-discriminatory dominance. The incident has left many wondering about the culture of sports administration in the country and the treatment of athletes.
Lovelina, who won the bronze medal in the women’s welterweight category at the Tokyo Olympics, has been a shining star for Indian boxing. Her achievements have earned her widespread recognition and admiration, and she has become a role model for young girls and women in the country. However, her experience with Col Malik during the Zoom meeting has left her feeling humiliated and disrespected.
The incident reportedly took place during a meeting to discuss Lovlina’s future plans and her preparation for the 2024 Olympics. However, instead of focusing on her goals and aspirations, Col Malik allegedly targeted Lovlina, telling her to “shut up, lower your head, and do as we say”. The tone and language used by Col Malik were not only unprofessional but also deeply offensive, leaving Lovlina feeling belittled and disrespected.
Lovelina has spoken out about the incident, saying that she was shocked and hurt by Col Malik’s behavior. She has also expressed her disappointment and frustration at the lack of support and understanding from the BFI and other officials. “His words weren’t only disrespectful but also carried an alarming tone of gender-discriminatory dominance,” she said. “I was taken aback by the way he spoke to me. It was humiliating and dehumanizing.”
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation on social media, with many calling for an inquiry into the matter. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has also announced that it will conduct an inquiry into the incident, and has asked Lovlina to share more details about the meeting.
The IOA has also expressed its support for Lovlina, saying that her achievements are a source of pride for the country. “We are shocked and saddened by the incident, and we want to assure Lovlina that we are fully behind her,” said IOA secretary general, Rajeev Mehta. “We will conduct a thorough inquiry into the matter and take necessary action to ensure that such incidents do not happen in the future.”
The incident has also raised questions about the culture of sports administration in the country. Many have expressed concerns that athletes are often treated as commodities rather than human beings, and that their achievements are often undermined or ignored. Lovlina’s experience has highlighted the need for change and the importance of treating athletes with respect and dignity.
Lovelina’s story is a reminder that even in the highest echelons of sports administration, there is room for improvement and accountability. As the country prepares for the 2024 Olympics, it is essential that we prioritize the well-being and respect of our athletes. Lovlina’s experience has sent a clear message that we need to do better and that we need to prioritize the dignity and respect of our athletes.
In conclusion, the incident involving Lovlina Borgohain and Col Arun Malik is a stark reminder of the need for change in the culture of sports administration in the country. It is essential that we prioritize the well-being and respect of our athletes and that we create an environment where they feel valued and supported. Lovlina’s achievements are a source of pride for the country, and it is our responsibility to ensure that she and all athletes are treated with respect and dignity.
