Sakyasen Mittra
Bhubaneswar, March 28: Even though there are reports in some quarters that Oriya athlete Dutee Chand has been allowed to participate in international meets by the Court of Arbitration (CAS) in Lausanne, Switzerland it is not the case. Dutee, who returned Saturday to Patiala from Lausanne, is yet to get the letter either from CAS or from the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) permitting her to take part in international meets. She however, has been cleared with a written document to participate in all national level competitions.
Dutee had been to Lausanne to attend the hearing of her case regarding the ban imposed on her because of the presence of excess of male hormone ‘androgen’ present in her body. She was represented by international lawyers with the Sports Authority of India bearing the expenses.
“I really do not know whether I should be happy or not,” stated Dutee over the phone from Patiala. “I have got verbal permission, but as you know, bolne se kuch nahi hota (nothing happens verbally),” stated Dutee. “I have got to get a letter from the IAAF permitting me to take part in international meets which I still have not. So I wouldn’t say that I am elated at the developments.
Yes, the situation does look positive. That has been the most pleasing aspect of the hearing. At least there is some light at the end of the tunnel for me,” Dutee added. It should be stated here that the verdict on Dutee’s case would come after approximately three months.
According to information available, both SAI and the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) will have to follow up with the IAAF regarding Dutee’s clearance. Unless that comes, Dutee’s future will still be in the dark as far as international meets are concerned.
Meanwhile, the athlete informed that her next national meet would be the Federation Cup May 4 and 5. “I haven’t started training, but I will definitely do so in the next few days as I want to do well in the meet,” asserted Dutee.
