Arunachal CM blames IOA for Wushu players from state denied entry to China, says IOA failed to handle matter

By Ripunjoy Das

Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu today expressed his anguish over the role being played by the International Olympic Association (IOC) over China issuing stapled visas to the three Wushu players from Arunachal Pradesh who were a part of the Indian contingent currently taking part at the Asian Games held in China.

Chief Minister Khandu, speaking to the media, said that although India took a very strong stand on the issue, the IOC failed to provide a solution to the matter.

He said that he will raise the issue with the ministry to request that the International Olympic Association take up the matter.

“China’s behaviour towards Arunachal Pradesh, especially towards its sportspeople, hampers the morale of our players,” he added.

Mentioning that no players from any part of the country should face any visa issue, he noted that it’s the responsibility of the International Olympic Association to look at the matter and said the association should take full responsibility for the issue.

However, he expressed hope that the three Wushu players will be able to clinch medals during the 2026 Tokyo Asian Games.

Khandu also assured that the Arunachal government will provide all kinds of financial assistance to the players, including their advance training in Indonesia.

It may be mentioned here that the Arunachal Pradesh government has already announced a reward of Rs 20 lakh each to all three players.

Three women Wushu players—Nyeman Wangsu, Onilu Tega, and Mepung Lamgu who were part of the Indian contingent at the ongoing Asian Games in Hangzhou, China couldn’t travel to Hangzhou as they didn’t get clearance from the Chinese authorities at the last minute.

Copy edited by- Haynashree Narjary

Also Read: Arunachal Pradesh: Hero’s welcome for Wushu athletes Mepung, Nyeman and Onilu in Itanagar