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Paris Olympics 2024: Manizha Talash, a member of the Refugee Olympic Team, faced disqualification at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The Afghan breakdancer was removed from the competition after displaying political slogan on her cap during her pre-qualifier round.
Afghan Breakdancer Disqualified from Paris Olympics
Talash wore a cape with the words "Free Afghan Women" prominently displayed while competing against India Sardjoe of the Netherlands. This bold statement was a clear protest against the restrictions imposed on women in her home country. Unfortunately, political slogans are prohibited within Olympic venues, leading to Talash's disqualification. The incident has sparked widespread discussion about the intersection of sports, politics, and human rights.
The World DanceSport Federation also issued a statement on Manizha Talash's disqualification.
"Talash was disqualified for displaying a political slogan on her attire," World DanceSport Federation said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the Afghan B-Girl told reporters:
"If I'd stayed in Afghanistan, I don't think I'd exist. They'd execute me or stone me to death."
Refugee Olympic Team Makes History
The Paris Games mark the third Olympic edition featuring a Refugee Olympic Team. This year, 37 athletes from various nations are competing across 12 sports, including athletics, badminton, and boxing. Among the participating nations is Afghanistan, represented by a delegation of six athletes. This symbolic gesture by the International Olympic Committee aims to send a powerful message to a country where the Taliban regime has severely restricted women's and girls' access to sports.
The leadership of Afghanistan's National Olympic Committee (NOC) finds itself in a challenging situation. Both the head of the committee, recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and the secretary-general are currently living in exile. Since seizing power in 2021, the Taliban has implemented strict measures that severely limit the rights of women and girls, including closing girls' high schools, restricting women's movement, and banning access to public spaces like parks and gyms. These actions stand in stark contrast to the Taliban's claims of respecting women's rights within the framework of Islamic law and local customs. Given the Taliban's policies, the IOC has made it clear that no Taliban officials will be accredited for the Paris Games.
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