Mary Kom resigns as Chef-de-Mission
Six-time world champion boxer MC Mary Kom on Friday stepped down from the post of India’s campaign head for the upcoming Paris Olympics. She said that due to personal reasons she has no option now.
Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha said that Mary Kom has written a letter to her asking her to resign from this responsibility. Mary Kom said in a letter to Usha, “It is a matter of pride to serve the country in any form and I was mentally prepared for it. But I am sorry that I will not be able to take this responsibility. I am withdrawing due to personal reasons.
She said, “I am embarrassed to hold back like this because I don’t do that but I have no choice. I will always be there to encourage our players participating in the Olympic Games.” IOA had announced her appointment on March 21.
Also read: ‘Long Due and Step in the Right Direction’: SOG Federation Lauds PM Modi’s Engagement with Indian Gaming Community
For the Paris Olympics starting July 26, the IOA announced contingent officials on March 21. Shiva Keshavan, a winter Olympian, was appointed as Mary’s deputy and she was designated chef de mission. According to sources, Mary was first hesitant to accept the position but changed her mind after Usha and government representatives persuaded her.
London Olympics 2012 bronze medalist Mary Kom would have been the campaign leader of the Indian contingent in the Olympic Games to be held from July 26 to August 11.
Usha said in a statement, “We are saddened that Mary Kom, Olympic medalist boxer and head of the IOA Athletes Commission, has stepped down from the post due to personal reasons. We respect their decision and privacy. His replacement will be announced soon.
She said, “I understand his request and respect his decision.” I have told him that IOA and my support is always with him. I request everyone to respect their privacy.
Who is Chef-de-Mission?
In a multidisciplinary event, the chef de mission is the most significant administrative member of the contingent. The CDM is in charge of making sure the athletes are safe, communicating with the organizing committee on various matters, and being prepared to put out a fire in the event that a dispute breaks out.
In addition to leading the squad and acting as their envoy, Mary Kom was tasked with organizing and overseeing every facet of their nation’s involvement in the Games.
