Following the order of Delhi High Court, India’s traditional Boat racing contingent is set to take part in the Asian Games in Indonesia from 18th August – 2nd September 2018. Earlier the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has denied the entry of Boat team into the Asian Games squad sighting lack of eligibility criteria. However, the team returned home with a silver and a bronze medal from the Asian level tournament last month.
In response to IOA’s decission, Abhay Singh, one of the athletes in the boat racing squad, had filed a petition in the Delhi High Court against IOA’s decision to not send a team of the water sport to the Games. The High Court ruled the matter in the petitioner’s favour and “directed the IOA to consider the case of the petitioner and team and take all steps to accredit the team to represent India in the traditional boat racing”.
IOA secretary Rajeev Mehta confirmed sending the entries to Games organisers following the High Court order. “We have sent the entries. Now it remains to be seen if the organisers accept their entries,” said Mehta.
Prashant Kushwaha, secretary, Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association, said, “As of now we are not sure how many names the Sports Ministry would clear. A team comprises 12 athletes, including 10 paddlers, a drummer and a steerer.”
