 |
|
Monika Devi proclaims her innocence on doping charges to the media in New Delhi yesterday. |
Devi, who was due to compete in the 69kg category in the Games, was dropped from the team hours before she was to board a flight for Beijing on Tuesday.
Indian deputy chef-de-mission Baljeet Singh Sethi said in Beijing Devi had tested positive for a steroid during an out-of-competition test conducted by the state-run Sports Authority of India (SAI).
"I am completely innocent," a tearful Devi told reporters at a hurriedly arranged press conference here.
"I have always stayed away from doping and that is why I was selected to represent my country. Everyone knows there are various international tests for catching dope cheats and no sensible athlete will ever do it.
"I am ready to go to Beijing and face the dope test. If I fail there, shoot me in public," she said.
Devi was picked for the lone Indian weightlifting berth amid controversy after the original choice, Shailaja Pujari, was dropped following a cash-for-selection scandal.
Pujari was named in media reports as offering Rs 5 lakh to a senior official to get picked for the Games, a charge she vehemently denied.
Devi alleged she was being framed by some officials who wanted Pujari to make it to the Games.
"I had no clue about the test result, it was only revealed to me couple of hours before I was to board the flight. It is a pre-meditated move by those who are trying to make a case for Pujari due to regional allegiance."
