The Union Sports Ministry has constituted a two-member committee to investigate marathon runner OP Jaisa's claims that she was not provided adequate facilities by Indian officials during her Olympics event. Jaisha, who finished 89th in the race, had alleged that no water or refreshments were made available to her during the run. She fainted after crossing the finish line at her event.
The ministry said that Union Sports Minister Vijay Goel had appointed two bureaucrats to look into the matter, adding that the committee will submit its report in seven days. The commission’s formation comes a day after Goel said that the responsibility of providing drinks lay with the Indian Olympics Association. Jaisha had further alleged that officials from other countries had provided water to their runners at points set up every 2.5 kilometres.
However, the Athletics Federation of India refuted her claims, saying she and her coach had declined their offer of energy drinks for her during the 42-kilometre race. The organisation further said that Jaisha had also declined the offer of drinks at the Beijing World Championship held last year.
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