Female kabbadi student-athletes from various Tamil Nadu universities, participating in an inter-university competition, were assaulted during a match today in Bathinda, Punjab.
According to sources in Tamil Nadu, female players from varsities such as Mother Teresa University, Periyar University, Alagappa University and Bharathiar University were in Punjab to compete in the North Zone Inter University & All India Inter University Kabaddi (Women) Championship 2024-25.
The athletes were allegedly attacked mid-match by members of the opposing team. It was reportedly over a ‘foul’ attack called against Mother Teresa University during a match against Darbhanga University.
As the team appealed to the referee, an argument broke out where the referee allegedly attacked a member of the Mother Teresa team. This led to a physical altercation where both teams began to attack each other.
Videos of the assault were widely circulated, showing spectators in support of the Darbhanga University team also joining in the quarrel. The altercation footage also showed chairs being flung around and women from Tamil Nadu varsity teams being attacked.
Sports Minister and Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin confirmed there was an attack, and said it was unfortunate that such an incident had occurred. “â Athletes have suffered minor scratches and no serious injury,” he said.
According to him, the fight was over points during the match and that all 36 student athletes, who had gone to Punjab for the competition, were safe.
“As soon as we got the complaint, we called the Coach. SDAT (Sports Development Authority of TamilNadu) contacted the District Collector and other officials to provide security to the players. â We do send physical directors and coaches to take care of facilities, unfortunately such an incident occurred,” he said.
Stalin also revealed that the athletes left Bathinda for Delhi. “They will stay in the Delhi House and will return to Tamil Nadu. All are safe,” he added.
Former state minister and AIADMK leader D Jayakumar condemned the attack.
“Severe action should be taken against those who attacked Tamil Nadu women athletes. It is much more essential to provide safety to athletes during games, than giving them crores (of rupees) after they return with a winning cup,” Jayakumar said, blaming the state government.
Source: India Today