HC serves notices on selection for Olympics

New Delhi, Jun 24 (UNI) The Delhi High Court has served notices to the Centre and the Judo Federation of India on the present selection procedure of women players for the Beijing Olympics.

Justice S L Bhayana also issued notices to the Sports Authority of India and Indian Olympic Association on a petition filed by Bittu Sharma, who challenged the federation's selection of Divya in women's Judo for the quadrennial event starting from August 8.

On June 3, Divya was selected by the federation to represent India for the game. The petitioner, however, contended that Divya had not made any remarkable performance in judo competitions and the apex body had taken advantage of her absence as she was on maternity leave for the year 2005 and 2006.

Ms Sharma in her petition claimed to have participated in 18 international judo tournaments and won several gold, silver and bronze medals. She alleged that the federation had neglected her feat and selected Divya inspite of her dismal show.

The court asked to file their replies by October 16.

UNI SSS SW HT1815