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Published 14:42 IST, April 30th 2019

Tamil Nadu government blames election MCC for not showing support to the Asian athletics gold medal winner Gomathi Marimuthu

Even as the social media heaped praises on the player for bagging gold, no one from the state government or even the sports ministry went and received Gomathi Marimuthu from the Chennai airport.

Reported by: Sanjeevee Sadagopan
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Gomathi Marimuthu, who is from a rural and economically backward background, made the whole county proud after winning gold medal in 800 mts running at the Asian athletics competition that was organized in Doha, Qatar. Even as the social media heaped praises on the player for bagging gold, no one from the state government or even the sports ministry went and received Gomathi Marimuthu from the Chennai airport.

This created a massive controversy as none of the officials went to welcome the gold medalist.

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Senior minister Jayakumar spoke to media and said that the government didn't do anything for her since that would be a violation of model code of conduct. He also went on to add that the government had sought permission from the election commission and the CM EPS to do all the needy things once they get clearance from the EC. 

Read: KXIP Accords Virat Kohli With 'Kuch Bhi' Award For His Aggressive Send-off To Ashwin. Here's RCB's Hilarious Reaction

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Earlier, Gomathi Marimuthu during a press conference in Chennai said that she need support from the state government to accomplish her future goal which is Olympics. She also added that she knew of many such athletes who had given up on their sporting careers sue to lack of support.

“My father ate the food kept for cattle in order to provide me with decent food so that I can train for athletics,” said a tearful Gomathi Marimuthu at a press meet on Friday in Chennai.

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 Gomathi said that she does not want anybody to suffer like she did during her training period.

“I had to fight for my rights at every step. I have seen many athletes give up because they did not have the help or the resources needed to prepare. I would be happy if government helps them,” she pointed out.  

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14:42 IST, April 30th 2019