Sachin bats to save Sarita Devi's career
According to reports, cricketer-turned Rajya Sabha MP Sachin has reportedly met Union sports minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Wednesday to discuss the international ban on boxer Sarita Devi.
It has been learnt that Olympic bronze medallists MC Mary Kom and Vijender Singh, IOA President N Ramachandran, Boxing India President Sandeep Jajodia and boxing coach GS Sandhu were also present in the meeting.
"I appeal to the entire country to be behind Sarita Devi," Tendulkar said after the meeting on Wednesday afternoon.
"I understand what she went through as a sportsperson. She has apologised. AIBA (International Boxing Association) should reconsider Sarita's case. We will appeal to them again," Tendulkar added.
Last week, batting legend Tendulkar wrote a letter to the minister urging him to support her and ensure that her career is not terminated prematurely. "I would urge you to kindly look into this issue urgently and ensure that she is given competent support so that her career is not threatened and ends in a premature manner," Tendulkar wrote.
Sarita Devi landed in controversy after she lost the semi-final bout in women's lightweight (60kg) competition at Incheon, South Korea, in September.
Dissatisfied with the judge's verdict, a bemused Sarita refused to bend down to let the medal be placed over her neck.
Instead she gave her medal to her opponent Park Ji-Na, who had been declared the winner of their semifinal bout at the presentation ceremony as a protest,
A sobbing Sarita then left the podium, which created a hue in the Games arena.
Tendulkar reportedly said that being a sportsman he could relate to Sarita's emotional turmoil.
Sports minister also came out in support of Sarita and promised full governmental support to her.
"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," he said.
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