Indian Para athletes denied coaches, escorts
Indian para athletes, who are currently in London for Paralympics 2012, have alleged that they have been denied their coaches and escorts for the event, even as officials of the national Paralympic committee are enjoying the comforts of the Games village with their kith and kin.
The officials are staying at the Olympic village in London with their family members leaving the para athletes to fend for themselves, without their escorts and coaches.
At major events like these, it is essential for special athletes to have escorts who take care of their needs and help wheelchair athletes move around.
Powerflifter Farman Basha said he was not provided with an escort and it had affected his performance in the London Paralympic Games.
“I do not have an escort here and even my coach was not allowed to stay with me,” said Basha, who is competing in the men’s 48kg PO classification powerlifting event.
“Only one escort is here for all of us. It is very difficult for us to move around in wheelchairs, he added”
Shooter and para athlete Naresh Kumar Sharma has written to the sports minister asking him to intervene.
The Arjuna awardee has alleged that the athletes have been denied their coaches and escorts for the game even as officials of the national Paralympic committee hold accreditation to the games despite having no coaching experience.
Discus thrower Amit said, “the coach under whom I have been training for six months, who understands my need is not allowed inside the Games village.”
Fellow discus thrower Jaideep said, “ I am not feeling strong mentally without my coach.”
India have ten athletes participating in the Paralympics 2012, which started on 29th August and ends on 9th September:
Girisha Nagarajegowda (High Jump)
Jaideep Deswal (Discus Throw)
Amit Kumar (Discus Throw)
Narender Ranbir (Javelin Throw)
Jagseer Singh (Long Jump)
Farman Basha (Powerlifting)
Sachin Chaudhary (Powerlifting )
Naresh Sharma (Shooting)
Sharath Gayakwad (Swimming)
Rajindersingh Rahelu (Powerlifting)
