A new controversy has erupted over a statue of legendary boxer MC Mary Kom at the Manipur Olympic Park. Statues of Mary Kom as well as 19 Olympians were installed in Imphal recently. Mary Kom's husband Onler Karong has stirred controversy over the statue of India's record-holding boxer. He has expressed dissatisfaction over the statue of his wife.
Also read: Six-time world champion boxer Mary Kom elected chairperson of IOA's 'Athletes Commission'
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Karong says that his wife is not happy about it. In an interview to a local newspaper, Mary Kom's husband claimed that the statue installed in the park does not look like six-time women's boxing world champion and 2012 London Olympics bronze medalist Mary Kom. Despite repeated attempts, Onler or Mary Kom could not be contacted. When contacted, the Chief Minister's Office said that they would not talk about the issue.
Regarding the controversy, Mary Kom's brother Jimmy Kom told news agency PTI that the Chief Minister's Office has assured him that they will replace the statue before the inauguration. The date for the opening of the park has not yet been decided.
"It is his (Onler) personal opinion. There is a concern that Onler's statement might be misinterpreted as the statues were installed to honor our state's athletes."
Jimmy Kom said
Chief Minister N Biren Singh also wrote before the matter came to the fore, "Is all set for inauguration. Everyone can now witness the statues of our legendary Olympians, the pride of our Nation. The Manipur Olympian Park was constructed in honor of our Olympians from Manipur who have brought laurels for the Nation. Not only will this place become a major tourist attraction but also inspire the youths to achieve greater heights in life."