Visa scandal hits Paralympic Committee of India ahead of Games
What's the story
The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) is currently embroiled in a significant visa scandal, just as the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games are about to begin.
The French Embassy in Delhi has denied visa applications from 15 individuals who were supposed to attend the Games under PCI's banner.
These rejections have occurred despite PCI issuing authority letters to these individuals, confirming their participation in the upcoming event.
Official response
PCI official distances herself from visa scandal
Parul Mahajan Oberoi, the PCI official in charge of visa-related matters, has distanced herself from this controversy.
Despite a letter signed by PCI Secretary General Jayawant GH being addressed to the French Embassy, stating that PCI had no connection with those whose visas were rejected.
Oberoi stated over the phone from Paris that "All the PCI officials are here in Paris. All is well with them. I am not aware of any other list of officials."
Rejected applications
Notable visa rejections raise questions
Among those whose visas were rejected is Arun Mathew, a renowned medical expert and member of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) medical team during the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Interestingly, Mathew's name was not included in the list of medical staff approved by PCI and sanctioned by the sports ministry for the Paris Paralympic Games.
Another individual who had his visa application denied is Jaspreet Singh from Punjab, listed as a PCI official.
Stance clarified
PCI clarifies stance on rejected visa applications
One applicant, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed that her visa was denied despite planning to travel to Paris as a PCI observer.
A senior PCI official currently in Paris clarified, "We gave letters to applicants to facilitate the visa procedure. Those on the list will have to pay their own airfare and accommodation. We have nothing to do with the financial part of the tour."
Indian contingent
India's Paralympics contingent
For the upcoming Paris Paralympics, India is fielding its most expansive team yet.
The contingent boasts 84 athletes, with 38 women and 46 men, competing in 12 different sports.
This marks a significant increase from the Tokyo Paralympics, where India's 54-member team (14 women and 40 men) secured an impressive haul of 19 medals.
The Paralympic games is set to begin on August 28 and will go on till September 8. This will be the 17th edition of the games.