Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Sports and Youth Affairs Sarbananda Sonowal on Wednesday wrote to the International Boxing Association (AIBA) president, urging the organisation to cancel pugilist Sarita Devi's suspension.
"The suspension of Sarita Devi has created grave concern among people of my country and sportspersons," wrote Sonowal in his letter.
Earlier, the AIBA had suspended Sarita Devi and her coaches indefinitely due to her protest at the 2014 Asian Games. Sarita Devi had refused to accept the bronze medal at the podium during the award ceremony in protest against a controversial verdict handed out against her.
Last week, Boxing India President Sandeep Jajodia had said that he had requested the AIBA to be lenient with Sarita Devi. Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar had also voiced his support for the pugilist.
