Mugdha Das

Lovlina Borgohain alleges gender bias by BFI official

Digital Desk: Olympic bronze medalist Lovlina Borgohain has accused Boxing Federation of India executive director and interim committee member Colonel Arun Malik of being disrespectful and prejudiced against women.

According to Lovlina's two-page complaint, the behavior during a Zoom meeting with representatives of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme was degrading and disrespectful.

The call on July 8 was scheduled at Lovlina's request to discuss her preparations for the World Championships in Liverpool this September.

She described the encounter as extremely painful and that it caused her to doubt the respect Indian women athletes are shown.

According to reports, the incident started when Lovlina asked coach Pranamika Boro to be her personal coach and to permit her to train abroad in Europe.

Malik allegedly turned down Lovlina's suggestions before TOPS officials had a chance to consider them.

Colonel Malik has responded by refuting the charges.

In the meantime, the IOA established a three-person probe committee that includes a female advocate, table tennis great Sharath Kamal, and TOPS CEO Nachhatar Singh Johal.

A month later, the panel still hasn't submitted its conclusions, despite being instructed to do so within two weeks.