Olympic Bronze Medallist Accuses BFI Executive of Gender Discrimination and Misconduct
Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain has raised serious allegations against Retired Colonel Arun Malik, Executive Director of the Boxing Federation of India (BFI), accusing him of using demeaning language and displaying gender-discriminatory behaviour during a professional interaction.
In a formal email complaint addressed to Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, the Sports Authority of India (SAI), the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) department, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), and the BFI, Lovlina described her experience during a Zoom meeting held on 8 July 2025, where, she alleges, Colonel Malik behaved in an “insulting and authoritarian” manner.
Key Allegations and Incident Details
Lovlina claimed that during the Zoom meeting, also attended by officials from SAI and TOPS, she had requested permission for her personal coach to join the national boxing camp and accompany her for training in Europe. According to her, this request, although against BFI policy, was met with hostility and was dismissed rudely by Colonel Malik.
In her complaint, she quoted Malik as saying:
“Keep quiet, put your head down, and do as you’re told.”
She described this exchange as not only personally humiliating but also reflective of a larger pattern of patriarchal and discriminatory behavior. “This was not just a personal insult; it was an attack on every woman athlete striving to rise both inside and outside the ring,” she wrote.
Lovlina added that the incident made her feel “small, unheard, and powerless”, and called for a transparent and speedy investigation into the matter. She also urged disciplinary action if the official’s behavior was found to be unacceptable.
BFI’s Response and Policy Stand
Colonel Malik has categorically denied all allegations, calling them “baseless and unsubstantiated.” He stated that Lovlina’s request was “considered respectfully but ultimately declined” because it violated BFI’s official policy.
According to BFI’s Selection Policy, updated in January 2025, participation in national coaching camps is mandatory for all athletes being considered for international competitions. The policy also explicitly prohibits the inclusion of personal coaches within the national camp framework to maintain fairness and uniformity.
Malik emphasized that the federation’s decisions were in line with ensuring equal treatment for all boxers and were not personally targeted.
Panel Formed to Investigate Allegations
In response to the complaint, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has formed an independent panel to investigate the incident. The committee includes:
- N.S. Johal, CEO of TOPS
- Sharath Kamal, Vice President of the IOA Athletes Commission
- A female legal expert
The full Zoom meeting between Lovlina and Colonel Malik was recorded, and the panel is expected to rely on this video to assess the situation objectively. However, due to prior commitments of panel members, the meeting has been delayed, though sources confirmed it will be convened soon.
One panel member stated, “With the video available, it should not be a complicated matter to resolve.”
Lovlina Maintains Silence Until Panel Verdict
Lovlina has chosen not to comment further until the panel reaches a conclusion. She stated that engaging with the controversy now could negatively impact her training and performance. “Until the panel decides, I will not make any further comments,” she said.
Background: Lovlina Borgohain’s Legacy
Lovlina Borgohain, 27, is one of India’s most celebrated female boxers, having won bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Known for her discipline and composure, she has long been a vocal advocate for athlete welfare and transparency in sports administration.
Her complaint has sparked conversations about gender sensitivity, athlete rights, and institutional accountability within Indian sports.
What Happens Next?
- The investigation panel is expected to submit its report soon.
- If Colonel Malik is found to have violated conduct codes, disciplinary action may follow.
- The outcome may also influence future BFI policies regarding athlete support staff.
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