Maken issues show-cause notice to PCI
Reacting to Indian Paralympics athlete Farmaan Basha's letter, and petitions from other athletes currently participating in Games in London, sports minister Ajay Maken has issued a showcause to the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI). "On the basis of petitions received from participating paralympic athletes and others, show cause notice being issued to the PCI," the minister tweeted on Friday.
Reacting to Indian Paralympics athlete Farmaan Basha's letter, and petitions from other athletes currently participating in Games in London, sports minister Ajay Maken has issued a showcause to the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI).
"On the basis of petitions received from participating paralympic athletes and others, show cause notice being issued to the PCI," the minister tweeted on Friday.
Basha, who is affected with polio and is a power-lifter for India, had written a letter stating how his performance suffered due to an apathetic attitude from the PCI members. The Arjuna awardee had stated how his wife, Antonia - who had apparently sold her jewellery to fund the athlete for London - was supposed to be his escort but was never allowed inside the Games village as PCI members were using the facilities meant for the support staff. Even his coach Sadanand Malashetti, whose presence in London was approved by the ministry wasn't allowed inside the Village.
And due to this, states Basha, his performance was affected as he could lift just 148kgs, way below his personal best of 170kgs. Basha still managed to finish fifth.  ÂÂ
Even after the event, states Basha, PCI denied an entry pass for his wife, who was supposed to be his escort, as a punishment for complaining against them.