Asian Games bronze medalist Nandini Agasara has strongly denied the transgender allegations made against her by fellow athlete Swapna Barman, challenging her to provide proof. Asserting her identity as a woman, Agasara expressed her disappointment over the controversy that has surrounded her victory and stated her intention to address the issue with the Athletics Federation of India (AFI).
Nandini stated, "I know what I am. Ask her to show proof. I will also show that I have won the medal for India. I only want to do well for the country. Now we have won, so people have started talking about it. I will take up this issue with AFI for sure. I wanted to enjoy the moment of winning the medal but going back to India as my mother is not well."
Swapna Barman had previously taken to social media to allege that Nandini is a transgender person, a violation of athletics rules. While Swapna did not mention Nandini's name, the reference was clear given Nandini's bronze medal win.
Barman posted, "I have lost my Asian Games bronze medal to transgender women at the 19th Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China. I want my medal back as it is against the rules of our athletics. Help me and support me please. #protestforfairplay." However, she later deleted her post.
Swapna Barman had initially been in contention for a silver medal at the Asian Games but faced challenges, including in the high jump and shot put events.
Agasara, a 20-year-old athlete from Telangana, secured the bronze medal in the women's heptathlon event at the Asian Games with a personal best score of 5712 points, narrowly edging out Barman, who finished fourth with 5708 points.
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