The CBI has initiated a preliminary enquiry into allegations of nepotism and favouritism against some Indian Olympic Association officials in sending two medical professionals with the Indian team to the Rio Olympics last year.
It is alleged that Dr Pawandeep Singh and RS Negi did not have the requisite qualifications and experience but were sent to the games from 24 July 2016 to 23 August 2016 with the Indian contingent.
Agency sources said there are allegations of nepotism, favouritism, and irregularities against certain officials of the IOA which are being examined by the CBI.
IOA Secretary-general Rajeev Mehta told PTI:
The matter is with the CBI. The IOA will assist the CBI in the enquiry.
Singh is the son of IOA Vice President Tarlochan Singh and was sent with the team as Chief Medical Officer.
Negi is also believed to be a distant relative of an IOA office bearer.
A Preliminary Enquiry is done to examine available evidence whether it prima facie constitutes a crime. The agency also collects additional material during the PE.
If the material prima facie indicates criminality, the agency goes ahead with a full-fledged probe by registering an FIR else it closes the complaint.
Since the beginning of the games, certain officials in the Indian contingent had been under fire for getting preferential treatment over athletes and even for their inclusion in the delegation instead of athletes’ support staff.
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