The Paris Olympic Games have been embroiled in controversy since the 'gender row' erupted in women's boxing. Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has been classified as a 'biological male' after her opponent, Angela Carini from Italy, decided to withdraw from the match after just 46 seconds. This decision has sparked criticism from several high-profile figures, including Elon Musk, who have condemned the International Olympic Committee's decision to allow Khelif to compete in the women's event.
Indian sprinter Dutee Chand, who has been at the centre of similar controversy in the past, has shared her perspective on the issue.
"In 2014, I challenged the IOC's rule in the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland that a person with a higher testosterone level should not participate. It was noted that hormonal levels cannot enhance athletic performance. I suffered a lot at that time. I faced considerable controversy regarding my gender," Chand told PTI.
"Yesterday, during the Olympic match, (Angela) Carini gave up and now she is complaining about the Algerian boxer because of high testosterone levels. When you compete in the Olympics, you undergo various tests. I don’t think it’s right to create controversy about this on social media," she added.
Imane Khelif vs Angela Carini Controversy
Khelif is one of two athletes competing in women’s boxing at the Paris Games despite not meeting the eligibility criteria for the world championships last year. Carini refused to shake hands with Khelif after a one-sided bout, and the Italian broke down in tears in the middle of the ring.
She said: "My nose started dripping (with blood) from the first hit."
The match has elicited a swift reaction from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who described the fight as "not on an equal footing," with other prominent figures worldwide also expressing their views. The IOC, however, released a statement dismissing the 'misleading' claims being made against the Algerian boxer.
(With Agency Inputs)
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