Gender Bias: Olympic Boxer Lovlina Files Complaint Against BFI Official

Olympic bronze medalist Lovlina Borgohain has accused Boxing Federation of India (BFI) executive director Col. Arun Malik (Retd.) of disrespectful and gender-discriminatory conduct.

In her complaint, Borgohain stated that Malik humiliated her and diminished her achievements during a Zoom meeting held on July 8, convened to discuss her preparations for the World Boxing Championships Liverpool 2025. The exchange reportedly arose from Borgohain’s requests that her personal coach be permitted in the national camp and accompany her for training in Europe.

Borgohain has sought disciplinary action should Malik’s behaviour be found inconsistent with the standards of acceptable conduct. Malik has denied the allegations, asserting that Borgohain’s requests conflicted with BFI policy and were declined respectfully.

Following the complaint, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) constituted a three-member inquiry committee. The panel, which was expected to submit its report within two weeks, has yet to file its findings a month later. Moreover, the Sports Authority of India (SAI) is said to have initiated an independent probe.