Support for Sarita : Pune NGO writes to Modi
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 28 2014:
SARHAD, a Pune-based NGO has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asking him to intervene in the suspension of boxer Laishram Sarita Devi by the AIBA to ensure her sporting career is saved.
The NGO works for the cause of States located on the international borders of India.
It conferred the 2nd Bhupen Hazarika National Award on noted dramaturge Ratan Thiyam in November last year.
"As an organization devoted to the cause of the States on the international borders of India, we are disturbed and deeply concerned about the suspension of Manipuri woman boxer L Sarita Devi," said Sanjay Nahar, president and founder of SARHAD in his letter written to the PM on Monday.
As a token of protest against the injustice done to Sarita by the judges in the women's 60 semifinal bout she played with her Korean opponent Jina Park in the Incheon Asian Games, Sarita refused to accept the bronze in the award ceremony.
Notwithstanding Sarita's dominating performance, Park was declared winner by the judges.
Though the Manipuri boxer had tendered an apology, the AIBA on October 22 suspended her provisionally for refusing to accept the medal.
Sarita's three coaches and the Indian chef-de-mission in the Incheon Asiad were also slapped with the same order.
The controversial verdict of the international boxing body has aggravated the ire of the people across the Nation.
A large number of athletes of the State, besides demanding that the decision be rolled back, also sought to punish the "corrupt" judges.
If AIBA fails to withdraw its verdict soon, Sarita will the ensuing women's world boxing championship in Korea's Jeju Islands next month.
Stating that entire country is looking at the PM with great expectations, the NGO requested him to intervene into the matter.
"Your intervention would send a strong, positive message to the people of Manipur.
At this juncture Sarita Devi needs all the support she can garner and your support above all, can really restore her confidence," it added.
The Manipur Olympic Association (MOA) has already written to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and the Union Sports Ministry to intervene in the matter to ensure the embargo is lifted.
Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh termed the AIBA verdict as a big insult to Sarita and young players of the Nation.