Indian wrestler Antim Panghal’s Olympic debut in Paris has taken a disastrous turn after she was disqualified and deported for a serious breach of protocol. The incident has cast a shadow over the Indian contingent’s participation in the Games.
Panghal’s troubles began after she was eliminated from the women’s 53 kg wrestling event. She returned to her hotel, where her designated coach Bhagat Singh and actual coach Vikas were staying. Panghal handed her official accreditation to her younger sister Nisha to collect her belongings from the Olympic Games Village.
However, Nisha was caught by security using the accreditation, which is strictly prohibited. She was detained by Paris police and questioned before being released. As a result, Antim’s accreditation was revoked, and she will be deported back to India along with her entourage.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has issued an official statement condemning the incident. “Indian wrestler Antim Panghal and her support staff to be flown back from Olympics following disciplinary breach in Paris,” the statement read.
The situation worsened when Panghal’s personal support staff, Vikas and Bhagat, allegedly traveled in an inebriated state in a cab and refused to pay the fare. The driver called the police, further embarrassing the Indian contingent.
“We are fighting fire as of now,” said an IOA source. “We have a bad situation at hand, our security officer is dealing with the situation.”
Panghal’s Olympic hopes were dashed after she suffered a crushing 0-10 defeat to Turkish opponent Yetgil Zeynep in the first round. Despite the loss, she had a slim chance of qualifying for the repechage if Zeynep reached the final. However, Zeynep lost in the quarterfinals, ending Panghal’s hopes of a medal.
The incident has raised serious questions about the discipline and conduct of the Indian contingent at the Olympics. The IOA has vowed to take strict action against those responsible for the breach of protocol.
