In a major disciplinary violation, Indian wrestler Antim Panghal and her support team were deported from the Paris 2024 Olympics after French authorities reported an incident involving improper accreditation. Panghal, a 19-year-old athlete from Haryana, was discovered to have passed her Olympic accreditation to her sister, allowing her to enter the Olympic Village illegally.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) received a complaint from French officials and confirmed the breach. As a result, Panghal and her team were returned to India. The IOA stated that such actions were against the rules and revoked Panghal’s accreditation. The incident follows another setback for Indian wrestling, with Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification due to a minor weight issue.
Antim Panghal had previously competed in the women’s 53kg freestyle round of 16, where she lost to Turkey’s Zeynep Yetgil. Despite the loss, Panghal’s actions off the mat have overshadowed her Olympic experience. This incident demonstrates the stringent adherence to the rules and regulations of the Olympic Games, underlining the necessity of preserving discipline and integrity.
The IOA will also consult with the Wrestling Federation of India to address the breach and its implications. This disciplinary action serves as a warning to all athletes about the necessity of following protocols and the repercussions of failing to do so.
