The confusion and threat around international sporting events to be hosted by India seems to have abated after the Sports Ministry categorically reaffirmed that all qualified athletes from all recognised countries would be allowed participation regardless of political issues.
Clarifies position
In a letter to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Tuesday, the ministry clarified its position and guaranteed participation to all athletes.
“It is the policy of the government that India will hold international sporting events and will permit all qualified athletes belonging to any NOC recognised by IOC, or any national federation affiliated to the International Federations concerned, to participate.
“Such participation of athletes shall be without prejudice to our principled positions and policies on other political matters, including issues such as international recognition or otherwise of the country of origin of the athletes,” the letter, a copy of which is with The Hindu, said.
“This stated policy guarantees the participation of all eligible athletes, sportspersons and officials in international sporting events organised in India under the auspices of the IOC. Such commitment stems from our world view of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, which in essence is also the spirit behind the International Olympic movement,” the letter added.
Positive
“The Sports Minister and sports secretary were extremely positive and helpful for an urgent and immediate resolution for this issue. My sincere thanks to the office-bearers, executive board and all members of the IOA for their unconditional support and trust which motivated and encouraged me,” IOA president Narinder Batra said.
It may be noted that India had lost quota places in two events at the shooting World Cup earlier this year due to lack of visas for Pakistani shooters, followed by loss of hosting rights for the Junior Asian wrestling cChampionship in March.
“Last year, there had been trouble after a Kosovan boxer was denied visa for the Women’s World Championships.
However, things had eased a bit after the IOC clarified to The Hindu in March this year that there was no blanket ban on India’s hosting rights in an important sporting year with several Olympic qualifying events scheduled and that every international federation was free to assess the impact and act accordingly regarding events in India.
Nevertheless, IFs and IOC had been insisting on government guarantees for international events.