New Delhi: Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Thursday reiterated its opposition to Dow Chemicals sponsorship of the London Games and urged the organizers and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) sort out the issue amicably keeping in view of the sentiments of the people of India.
IOA Acting President Prof Vijay Kumar Malhotra told the British High Commissioner in India James Bevan that there is feeling among section of people that the Games Organizers have not taken up this very sensitive issue seriously.
Prof Malhotra told Bevan that IOA has already lodged a strong protest with the IOC and the London Games Organizers regarding Dow’s sponsorship and we are still awaiting their reply.
“IOA’s stand remains that Dow should not be the sponsors of Olympic Games till the matter is resolved. The matter is still pending before the court.”
Prof Malhotra made it clear that IOA is fully committed to the IOC and Olympic Charter but IOA also want that sentiments of the people be respected. “The NGOs, former Olympians, members of the civil society and even the Government feels that there is a need for correction in the sponsorship process of the Games.”
Bevan called on Prof Malhotra at his residence here to discuss India’s participation in the London Olympics and explained his government Games organizing committee’s stand on this issue.
Prof Malhotra assured him that he will convey his view to the IOA members.
The High Commissioner also said, “We are eagerly awaiting for Indian participants in the London Games. They will get great reception.”
The High Commissioner urged the IOA Chief to send strongest possible contingent for this mega event. “I am sure Indian sportspersons will do better this time then what they did in 2008 Beijing Games. I am told that several athletes have already qualified and more will be making the cut in coming months and it will be their life time ambition to showcase their talent before the sporting world.”
Bevan said Britain has very long and cordial sports relations with India. “We are confident that IOA and Indian Government will help us to make the London Games a huge success. I am happy that lot of money is being spent on qualified sportspersons to provide them with all facilities to prepare for the Olympics.”
Bevan also informed Prof Malhotra the steps taken by the British High Commission for facilitating the visa and biometrics process for the Indian contingent and the official delegation accompanying it.
