India to appeal to AIBA to reconsider Sarita's ban

Sarita Devi

New Delhi, Nov 26 (IANS)

Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Wednesday said the Indian government will appeal to the International Boxing Association (AIBA) to reconsider its decision of suspending L. Sarita Devi, following her refusal to accept the bronze medal at the 2014 Asian Games medal ceremony.

Sonowal said the government will extend all necessary help to the suspended boxer, and noted that Sarita is getting all necessary help from Boxing India.

"On behalf of the Government of India, we will take up the matter with AIBA. We will request them to to reconsider her case. India will always be grateful to Sarita for what she has done for the country and she has our full backing," Sonowal said.

Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, who met Sonowal Wednesday to discuss Sarita's international ban, said the entire country should stand behind the boxer.

"I appeal to the entire country to be behind Sarita Devi," Tendulkar said after the meeting.

Olympic bronze medallists MC Mary Kom and Vijender Singh, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president N. Ramachandran, Boxing India president Sandeep Jajodia and coach G.S. Sandhu were also present in the meeting.

"I understand what she went through as a sportsperson. She has apologised. AIBA should reconsider Sarita's case. We will appeal to them again," he said.