New Delhi
The exclusion of champion weightlifter Sambo Lapung from the trials for the upcoming 2025 Commonwealth Championships has triggered widespread criticism across Arunachal Pradesh. The Arunachal Olympic Association (AOA), along with several local sports organizations, has condemned the decision and formally petitioned the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) seeking justice.
Lapung, known for his consistent gold medal-winning performances, has been a prominent figure in Indian weightlifting. His sudden omission from the national selection trials has raised eyebrows and led to allegations of bias and neglect against athletes from the Northeastern region.
In its petition, the AOA emphasized Lapung’s significant contributions to Indian weightlifting and questioned the rationale behind his exclusion. “Athletes like Sambo Lapung, who have brought national pride, deserve transparency and equal opportunity. Ignoring him without clear justification sets a damaging precedent,” the association stated.
The controversy has sparked a larger conversation about inclusivity and fair representation of Northeast athletes in national sports governance. Many local leaders and sports personalities have joined the chorus of protest, calling for reforms in selection policies and demanding better support for athletes from remote regions.
The IOA has yet to respond to the petition, but pressure is mounting as public support for Lapung continues to grow. Sports officials in Arunachal Pradesh warned that continued neglect of the state’s athletes could lead to greater regional disillusionment with national sports bodies. Lapung’s supporters are now hoping the IOA will review the decision and ensure fair play in the lead-up to the Commonwealth Championships.
