Indian wrestler Antim Panghal is facing deportation from the Paris 2024 Olympics after a serious breach of discipline involving her sister, Nisha.
This incident has drawn significant attention and disappointment, particularly following the recent disqualification of fellow Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat.
Why was Antim Panghal deported from the Paris Olympics 2024?
Antim Panghal, a promising 19-year-old athlete and junior world champion, was set to represent India in the women’s 53 kg wrestling category.
However, her Olympic journey took a drastic turn after she suffered a heavy defeat, losing 0-10 to Turkey’s Zeynep Yetgil in her opening bout. Following this loss, Antim left the Olympic Village to stay at a nearby hotel with her coach and sister.
In a misguided attempt to retrieve her belongings from the Olympic Village, Antim allegedly gave her accreditation to her sister, Nisha. This led to Nisha attempting to enter the Village using Antim’s credentials.
Unfortunately, she was caught by security personnel, resulting in her detainment by local authorities. Although Nisha was later released, the incident raised serious concerns about security and compliance with Olympic protocols.
What were disciplinary actions taken against Antim Panghal?
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) was notified of the breach by French authorities and swiftly decided to revoke Antim’s accreditation.
In an official statement, the IOA confirmed that both Antim and her support staff would be deported back to India due to the disciplinary breach.
The statement read, “The Indian Olympic Association has decided to fly wrestler Antim and her support staff back after a disciplinary breach was brought to IOA’s notice by the French authorities.”
In addition to the accreditation issue, further complications arose when Antim’s support staff, including her coaches, were reportedly involved in a separate incident.
They were accused of traveling inebriated in a cab and refusing to pay the fare, which led to police intervention. This series of events has compounded the negative spotlight on the Indian wrestling contingent at the Olympics.
Impact on Antim Panghal’s Career
Antim Panghal’s deportation marks a significant setback in her burgeoning wrestling career. As one of the first athletes to secure an Olympic quota in her weight category, expectations were high for her performance in Paris.
The abrupt end to her Olympic journey not only affects her personally but also casts a shadow over Indian wrestling, which is already reeling from the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat.
