Asian Games: Sports Minister Anurag Thakur will not go to China, protests against not giving entry to 3 Indian players

matnewsSeptember 22, 2023

The 19th Asian Games has been organized in Hangzhou city of China. In this, a controversy has arisen over China’s refusal to give entry to three Wushu players from Arunachal Pradesh. India has taken this issue seriously. India’s External Affairs Ministry has said that in protest against this, Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur has canceled his China tour.

Executive Chairman of Asia Olympic Council said – the matter is under consideration

On this issue, Randhir Singh, acting president of the Olympic Council of Asia, said, “We had a discussion with the working group on Thursday, and this issue has also been raised in the working group meeting. They are taking it to the government and we are also taking it to the government. This is under consideration. This is a government to government matter and is outside our jurisdiction. We are from OCA. We are doing it from our level.”

Foreign Ministry spokesperson said- We strictly reject discrimination

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi says, “India strongly rejects any disparate treatment of our citizens on the basis of residence or caste. Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always be an integral part of our country. A strong counter complaint has been filed against our players. “China’s conduct violates the spirit of the Asian Games and its rules of conduct, which clearly prohibit discrimination against athletes from member states.”

Asian Games 2023 Live: Indian volleyball team beats Chinese Taipei, women’s table tennis team will also present a challenge

He said, “China’s attitude is inappropriate. As a mark of protest, India’s Minister of Information and Broadcasting and Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports have canceled their scheduled visits to China. The Government of India reserves the right to express its views through appropriate channels to protect its interests.”

On the other hand, OCA Ethics Committee Chairman Wei Jizhong claims, “Indian athletes have been granted visas to enter China.” He said, “These Indian athletes have already received visas to enter China. China did not deny any visa. Unfortunately these athletes did not accept this visa. I don’t think this is a problem of OCA because China has made an agreement for it. Let all athletes with certified qualifications come to play in China. it’s clear. The visa has already been granted.”