London Olympics bronze medallist Mary Kom on Friday resigned as India’s Chef De Mission for Paris 2024, citing personal reasons that have almost crippled her. The six-time World Champion’s decision to step down from the position comes weeks after the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) chose her for the position.
In a letter to IOA president PT Usha, the Union Sports Ministry and the Sports Authority of India, the boxing legend said that she was left with no choice but to quit. “It is embarrassing for me to retreat from a pronounced commitment, which I seldom do, but I am left with no choice.”
“I considered it an honour to serve my country in every way possible and I was mentally prepared for it.”
“However, I regret to inform you that I will not be able to uphold the prestigious responsibility conferred on me as Chef de Mission for the Paris Olympics 2024, and would like to resign from the same, reasoning from the problems that have crippled me partly.”
“But it is getting tougher for me to leave my family behind at this point, even for a short while. My presence is much needed here,” she said. “Having stated the abovementioned facts, though I am unable to put them transparently and vividly, I humbly request you take into consideration my plea to step down as Chef de Mission for the 2024 Paris Olympics.”
The IOA had named the legendary boxer as India’s Chef De Mission while winter Olympian Shiva Keshavan was named her deputy on March 21, when the officials for the contingent were named.
On accepting her resignation, Usha said that the IOA respects her decision and privacy. “I shall make the appropriate consultations and soon make an announcement about the replacement for Mary Kom,” Usha added.
The boxing legend’s decision to step down from the position leaves the Indian contingent in a difficult position. The IOA will have to undergo the entire process of selecting a replacement with a little more than 100 days left for Paris Olympics.
Incidentally, Kom was reluctant to take up the role earlier but agreed after being convinced by the government and the IOA chief.