Sarita Devi joins Manoj Kumar as a Boxers’ representative in the executive council
Laishram Sarita Devi has defeated Seema Punia to be elected as the Women Boxers’ Representative in BFIEC. The former Asian and world champion was voted in by 22 of the 31 team captains to beat her opponent Punia at the election conducted during the national championship in Rohtak.
"I would be aiming to raise the problems faced by women boxers because I have practical experience of how things work. I decided to contest the polls two days ago because as a senior boxer, I thought it is important that I give voice to girls and their issues," the Manipuri, who is a four-time Asian champion, told PTI.
After winning the election, Sarita has joined Manoj Kumar as a boxers' representative in the executive council. Former Commonwealth Games gold-medallist Manoj was elected to be a member of the committee in 2016 during the national championships in Guwahati.
During the 2014 Commonwealth Games, Sarita Devi had dominated her 60kg semifinals bout against South Korean boxer Ji-Na Park and had reacted strongly after she was declared the loser. She had refused to accept the bronze medal, but later apologised to the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), which had given her a stern warning.
