CWG Gold Medalist Weightlifter Achinta Sheuli has been ousted from the Paris Olympics preparatory camp due to a disciplinary breach. The incident occurred when Sheuli, competing in the men’s 73kg class, was found entering the women’s hostel at NIS Patiala at night, leading to his immediate dismissal from the camp.
Officials from the Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWLF) stated that such behaviour cannot be tolerated, and Sheuli was instructed to leave the camp immediately.
“Obviously, such indiscipline will not be tolerated. Achinta was asked to leave the camp immediately,” an Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWLF) official told PTI on condition of anonymity.
The Sports Authority of India (SAI) and NIS Patiala Executive Director Vineet Kumar were promptly informed of the incident. With video evidence available, SAI decided against forming an investigating panel and directed IWLF to remove Sheuli from the camp.
“The video was sent to NIS Patiala ED Vineet Kumar and the SAI headquarters in New Delhi, and IWLF was asked to remove Achinta from the camp,” a SAI source said.
No Paris Games berth for Achinta Sheuli
His removal also extinguished his hopes of qualifying for the Olympics, as he will miss the upcoming IWF World Cup in Phuket, Thailand, a crucial event for the Paris Games qualification.
Despite Sheuli’s setback, Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Mirabai Chanu and Commonwealth Games silver medallist Bindyarani Devi remain in contention for the Paris Games. Both athletes are set to participate in the IWF World Cup in Thailand later this month.
Additionally, the qualification criteria for the 2024 Olympics necessitate participation in various international championships and events, including the World Championships and Continental Championships.