Swapna Barman later apologized for her post.
Swapna Barman won gold at the Asian Championships in 2018. EPA / AOP
Indian septuagenarian Swapna Barman got angry with his earthling Nandini to Agasara At the Asian Championships in China.
Barman was fired up when Agasara won the bronze right under his nose.
– I lost the bronze medal to a transgender woman. I want my medal back because this is against the rules. Please help me and support me, he wrote.
The post caused an uproar, and Barman quickly deleted his post. However, the damage had already been done.
Agasara took a stand on Barman’s comment.
– This does not stop there. Why didn’t he say anything when we started the race? How can anyone say something like that to another woman? Of course, after that, they start blaming me when I beat him. I will sort this out with the union but for now I want to enjoy, celebrate and go back to India where my sick mother is waiting for me.
The Athletics Federation of India has refused to comment on the incident. The association plans to celebrate Agasara’s bronze medal.
– He embodies sportsmanship and excellence. We congratulate him and wish him the best for the years to come,” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X.
Barman wrote an apology message on X on Thursday.
– I apologize for my message, especially from my fellow competitor. It was purely out of disappointment and a significant emotional outburst. I am deeply sorry for my emotional reaction, he posted on the messaging service.
In 2018, Barman won gold at the Asian Championships.