'Sports should be above party politics': AFI backs Anju Bobby George

New Delhi: The Athletics Federation of India expresses complete solidarity for the country’s highest achiever in track and field sports till date, the World Championships Bronze Medalist Anju Bobby George. The AFI urges chief minister of the south Indian state of Kerala to extend full support to the legendary long jumper who has brought great laurels to the country throughout her athletics career, stands for total integrity in both her professional and public life and continues to serve sports selflessly, influencing and motivating young athletes and elite ones alike across India. [caption id=“attachment_2831000” align=“alignleft” width=“380”] Indian long Jumper Anju George. Getty[/caption] India’s lone World Championship medallist has recently alleged that Kerala Sports minister EP Jayarajan insulted her and accused her of financial irregularities while she carried out her duties as the president of Kerala Sports Council. Anju had termed the allegations baseless. In a statement issued in New Delhi on Sunday, the AFI said,“Anju Bobby George is arguably India’s greatest athlete as the only Indian Athlete to win a Medal in the IAAF World Championships till now. On behalf of the entire athletics fraternity in the country, we salute her selfless and indefatigable service to Indian athletics and extend her absolute support at this juncture.” “We also request the Honourable Chief Minister of Kerala to extend full encouragement to Anju Bobby George so that she can carry on performing her duties with aplomb as the President of the Kerala State Sports Council,” the release further stated. It also recalled how much contribution Anju’s family has had in state’s sporting development. “Anju Bobby George and her family are a rare sports family in the country and her brother, Mr Ajith Markose is an international coaching licence holder and has been attached with the Indian team for many internationals, including Asian Games. We are shocked that instead of appreciating their contribution, unnecessary criticism has been made. Sports should be above party politics and the AFI staunchly hails Anju Bobby George’s contribution to Indian sports.”