TODAY -
Monika sceptical of getting justice
One man probe

Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 18: Her cherished dream of competing with the world's best at the Beijing Olympics already shattered, weightlifter Laishram Monika Devi expressed scepticism that the inquiry ordered into the doping test scam would bring out the entire truth on the shoddy episode.

Interacting with media persons at the Manipur Press Club (Majorkhul) after inaugurating 'Monika Gym' at her native place today, the ace weightlifter was not convinced that the inquiry entrusted to former Chief Election Commissioner TS Krishnamurthy can remove nepotism and discrimination deeply rooted in the Indian sports system.

Responding to a query on the probe, the Melbourne Commonwealth Games gold medallist said as was evident from her omission from India's beijing contingent there is strong suspicion of the one-man investigation panel and SAI officials colluding to cover up the goof-up.

informing that the Krishnamurthy investigation had commenced from today, Monika said the inquiry panel intimated her to submit her statement which she would duly comply.

On being reminded that in protest against her unjustifiable exclusion from the Beijing squad civil society organisations resolved to boycott forthcoming zonal, national or international level competitions, Monika extended her solidarity to the stand stating that personal endeavour and achievement is secondary as she considers honouring the collective decision as top priority.

however, she pointed out that prolonged absence from competitions would be detrimental to interest and objective of sportspersons of the State.

Conveying her deep mgratitude to the people of manipur for backing her during such depressing phase she is enduring, Monika revealed that her arrival to her native place has no official consent from her employer (CRPF) but strong desire to meet the people here encouraged her to take the first available flight. The 'Monika Gym' is a concept of the Indian Army in honour of the weightlifter for her gold medal winning heaves in the Melbourne Commonwealth Games.

The gymnasium is said to have been built at the cost of Rs 5.5 lakh.

Monika conveyed to the mediapersons that since August 9 she could not follow her training rigours which she resumed with the inauguration of the Gym at her birthplace Nachou in Bishnupur district.

Secretary of Manipur Weightlifting Association Sunil Elangbam, who was also present during the media briefing, expressed hope that the Krishnamurthy enquiry could fix responsibility against erring SAI officials.

He also said the Association has already put up the Monika issue to the International Weightlifting Federation and Indian Olympic Association.

Sunil pointed out that leaking result of the doping test on Monika to the media before the same was conveyed to the Indian federation is questionable and out of context.





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