BOXING: India in hot water for refusing to admit Kosovo boxer for Women’s Worlds

While the AIBA Women’s World Championships are continuing in New Delhi (IND), the refusal of the Indian government to allow Kosovo boxer Donjeta Sadiku into the country is continuing to have repercussions. The head of the Olympic Council of Asia (and the Association of National Olympic Committees), Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah sent a letter to India’s Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, stating that “The incident has seriously cast a doubt on the eligibility of India in hosting major international sporting events and other major games, like the Olympics, Asian Games et, in India. …

“As you are aware as per Olympic Charter and OCA constitution, it is the duty of the organizing committee to provide entry to every eligible athlete participating in a major championship without discrimination.”

India’s suitability to host a future major Games also took a hit prior to the tournament when competitors complained about the city’s thick air pollution. IndiaToday.in reported that “teams are complaining about a toxic smog hanging over the city, caused by seasonal burning of crop stubble and emissions from vehicles and industry.

“The weather, with no wind to blow the pollution away, has aggravated the problem in one of the world’s most polluted cities.”

The site also reported that “French coach Anthony Veniant said he had asked for the tournament to be moved out of Delhi but his request was turned down.” Several athletes took to wearing surgical masks, scarves and even T-shirts across their mouths.