Olympics: Indian wrestler Antim Panghal faces deportation for disciplinary breach
In another blow for the Indian contingent competing at the 2024 Paris Olympics, wrestler Antim Panghal faces deportation due to a disciplinary breach. As per The Indian Express, Antim was accused of illegally getting her sister inside the Athletes' Village. Antim reportedly gave the official accreditation card to her sister, who was caught by the officials while leaving the Games Village.
IOA's official statement on the matter
As per The Indian Express, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has confirmed that Antim and her entrouge will head back to India following the "disciplinary breach". "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," the official statement read.
Here's how it all unfolded
Wrestler Antim, who made her Olympics debut in Paris, was knocked out in the first round by Zeynep Yetgil (women's freestyle 53kg). The 19-year-old left for the team hotel thereafter alongside her sister and coaches. After collecting her belongings, Antim went back to the Village, this time taking her sister along. However, the security officials caught Antim's sister using the accreditation card to enter.
Antim was taken to the Village police station
Later that day, Antim and her sister were taken to the police station inside the Village. As per several reports, the police advised the Indian officials to schedule a flight for Antim and her entrouge for Thursday.
Antim's coaches involved in another controversy
The Indian Express also reported that Antim's coaches - Bhagat Singh and Vikas - were involved in a separate controversy. It has been learned that upon reaching the team hotel, the duo "refused to pay the cab driver and misbehaved with him." They rushed inside the hotel premises thereafter. The cab driver approached the police for this matter.
Vinesh Phogat announces retirement after Olympic shock
Antim isn't the only Indian wrestler set to leave the 2024 Paris Olympics on a low note. On Augut 7, star Indian grappler Vinesh Phogat was deprived of a medal after reaching the 50kg freestyle final. The 29-year-old was disqualified for being 100gm overweight during Wednesday's morning weigh-in. Vinesh declared her retirement from the sport a day after being disqualified from the Paris Olympics.
