At a time when India is trying its best to enhance its reputation as a sports-loving country, it looks like the nation has a herculean task in front of it. The latest turn of events related to the ongoing World Junior Squash Championships is a testament of that.
The tournament is currently being played in Chennai. Youngsters from across the globe have come to participate in it. However, the contingent from Switzerland is a depleted as their top-ranked player Ambre Allinckx has boycotted the tournament for safety reasons.
According to New Indian Express, Allinckx’s parents did not want her to come to India after reading reports about the number of crimes against women in the country. Pascal Bhurin, the Swiss coach, confirmed the news saying:
“Ambre Allinckx is our top-ranked women’s player. She couldn’t make it because her parents did not want.”
Bhurin, however, stated that the team has not faced any problem or disturbance whatsoever so far.
“They have been reading reports on the internet about how unsafe India is for women. And they didn’t want to take the risk of sending their daughter over. However, we have not experienced any disturbance so far,” he said.
But that India’s image is not very good overseas is pretty much clear. As per reports, teams from Iran, Australia and the United States of America have expressed the concerns regarding the matter. They have also advised their players to dress conservatively in order to keep a low profile.
Andrew Shelley, the Chief Executive of the World Squash Federation (WSF), also spoke on the report. He, however, is confident on the security arrangements made by the organisers.
“Of course the views and choice of every parent must be fully respected. However, there are over 250 players and officials from 28 countries, including a full squad from Switzerland,” he told the tournament’s official website.
“Like the WSF, they all have complete confidence with the security arrangements made by Tamil Nadu Squash Rackets Association at the Championship Hotel and playing venues to ensure the safety of the players at this event,” added Shelley.