NEW DELHI: The Sports Ministry has also jumped into the controversy that began after Mary Kom's direct entry into the trial for the World Championships. The Ministry has sought a response from the Boxing Federation on its decision. According to a newspaper, the Sports Ministry has sent a notice seeking full details of the trial. Union Sports Minister Kiran Rijiju is not in favor of a selection of any player without a trial. That is why cleanliness has been sought on this issue.
According to sports code 2011 of the Sports Ministry, all sports associations seeking assistance from the Government of India are required to undergo a trial before holding international events. But the Boxing Federation of India did not conduct trials of 51 kg and 69 kg weight category for the World Championships as opposed to the rule. In a letter to the Indian Boxing Federation, Nikhat, a junior boxer alleged that he was "prevented from participating" in a trial bout against VanLal Duati on Tuesday and was followed by chief selector Rajesh Bhandari.
Nikhat had won a silver medal in the Thailand tournament and had hoped to challenge Mary Kom in the 51kg trial. Rajesh Bhandari admitted that the decision to select Mary Kom was taken a few days before consulting top BFI officials. The World Championships will be played in Russia from October 3 to 13.
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