IOA President PT Usha Calls Out EC Members for Neglecting Olympic Medallists

Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha criticized the Executive Committee for failing to honor Olympic medallists and accused the Finance Committee of blocking funds for athletes' preparation. Usha highlighted the lack of support and recognition for athletes, urging immediate action to rectify the situation. She also addressed allegations against her leadership as false and malicious.

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha on Monday expressed deep concern over the Executive Committee's failure to honor Olympic medallists and accused the Finance Committee of blocking funds meant to support Indian athletes preparing for the Paris Games.

Despite India securing six medals, including two historic bronzes by young shooter Manu Bhaker, Usha lamented the EC's absence in celebrating their success, describing the situation as 'very sad.' She emphasized the committee's duty to honor athletes who bring pride to the nation and critiqued the EC's failure to organize a formal felicitation ceremony even after athletes returned in mid-August.

Usha revealed that a grant proposal for Rs 2 lakh for each Olympic-bound athlete and Rs 1 lakh for each coach was blocked by IOA Treasurer Sahdev Yadav. She argued that the funds were critical for athletes' preparation, accusing the Finance Committee of disregarding their needs. Comparing the current leadership with previous ones who celebrated Olympic medallists even during the COVID-19 pandemic, Usha questioned the commitment of current EC members, particularly former athletes, to honor those bringing national glory.

In a further escalation, Usha criticized 12 Executive Council members who accused her of autocratic leadership, emphasizing their poor track records and allegations of gender bias and sexual harassment against them. She urged the EC to recognize the athletes' achievements immediately and pledged her unwavering support for the athletes.

(With inputs from agencies.)