“Born Woman, Global Bullying”: Tamil Singer Chinmayi Sripaada Comes Out In Support Of Imane Khelif

Tamil singer Chinmayi Sripaada has publicly voiced her support for Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, who has been at the center of controversy following her participation in the Paris 2024 Olympics. Sripaada shared a childhood image of Khelif on social media, asserting that Khelif is “born woman” and not a man. She added that in Algeria, where Khelif represents, it is illegal and banned to change one’s gender.

Sripaada drew parallels between Khelif’s situation and that of Indian athlete Shanthi Soundarrajan, who faced severe harassment due to her appearance. She expressed concern for Khelif, stating that the boxer is enduring “global bullying” and that it “looks horrific.”

Read Also: Imane Khelif: Why Everyone From US Campaigns To JK Rowling To Paris Is Talking About Her

Imane Khelif is BORN WOMAN.
She is NOT a man.

*The right to change their gender is illegal and banned in Algeria, the country she represents.*

Indians have harassed and harangued Shanthi Soundarrajan, a brilliant sportswoman, just because she didn’t look the way they expect a… pic.twitter.com/JzYvTNgTVV

— Chinmayi Sripaada (@Chinmayi) August 2, 2024

In a pointed response to author JK Rowling, Sripaada criticized Rowling’s stance, noting that the writer has shown no remorse for the impact her words have had on Khelif. Sripaada suggested that Rowling’s lack of empathy might be influenced by Khelif’s religion and race, which she implied were factors that “the standard white person doesn’t like.”

Rowling had previously shared an image of Khelif with Angela Carini from the Paris Olympics, where Carini withdrew from their match after 46 seconds. The writer accused Khelif of being a male enjoying protection from a “misogynist sporting establishment,” and claimed Khelif had shattered Carini’s lifelong ambition.

How heroes fall.

Someone show J K Rowling this photo.
I am pretty sure Rowling will have no remorse for what she has globally unleashed on Imane because she belongs to a religion and race the standard white person doesn’t like. https://t.co/bWZptzepQj pic.twitter.com/j9TIMvviGv

— Chinmayi Sripaada (@Chinmayi) August 2, 2024

Read Also: What International Olympic Committee Said On Imane Khelif Controversy

Khelif has faced widespread criticism on social media, particularly from figures like Elon Musk and leaders of the Republican Party, who have mocked her victories and questioned her eligibility to compete in women’s sports. Despite this, Khelif remains determined, stating her intention to fight for Olympic gold and continuing her preparations for upcoming matches.