IOC Nod to India for Hosting International Sports Events

IOC nod to India for hosting international sports events

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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Thursday lifted the restrictions imposed on India with regards to hosting international events, two days after the union government's assurance that no eligible athlete would be denied visa on political grounds.

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● Two days earlier, the government gave a written assurance to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and the IOC that all eligible athletes will be allowed to compete without prejudice in international events held in India ● In Response IOC said that it was satisfied with the steps taken by the government, and the restrictions were being withdrawn. ● This is a relief for India, which has expressed interest in hosting the Olympic Games in 2032 and the Asian Games in 2030. Reason for Restriction

● These restrictions had been in place since February, after two Pakistani shooters were denied visas by the Indian government for the ISSF World Cup (pistol and rifle) held in New Delhi.  The decision to deny visas to two Pakistani rapid-fire pistol shooters was taken following the Pulwama terror attack where 40 CRPF personnel were killed ● As a result, World wrestling body (UWW) moved the junior Asian wrestling championship out of India. The country also lost the hosting rights of the junior Davis Cup and Fed Cup due to the same issue ● In another incident in November last year, Kosovo boxer Donjeta Sadiku was not allowed to participate in the Women’s World Boxing Championships in Delhi, as the country is not recognised by India. IOC argument

● The IOC had said in February that by denying visas to the shooters, India had violated the Olympic Charter, in particular the principles of non-discrimination, which the IOC and the Olympic Movement stands for.  As per the Olympic charter, it is mandatory that equal treatment be guaranteed to all participating athletes and sporting delegations at international sports events, “without any form of discrimination or political interference from the host country”.