sports minister M S Gill on Monday opposed the idea of inviting politicians and filmstars

In what could cause severe heartburn among celebrities looking to run with the Olympic torch but gladden the hearts of sports lovers, newly appointed sports minister M S Gill on Monday opposed the idea of inviting politicians and filmstars to carry the flame.
Gill, who feels the occasion should be exclusively for sportspersons, wants former athletes with distinguished careers and budding sportspersons to be invited to carry the torch.
"It's their moment and VIPS, ministers, politicians or people from the entertainment industry have little right to carry the torch. It belongs to sportspersons," Gill told TOI.
Such attractions from politics and the entertainment industry have been used in different countries to gather crowds but purists have always frowned upon the idea. On using glamorous add-ons, purists express their grouse that while they pull in crowds, they turn attention away from the real purpose by putting the spotlight on themselves.
On the Indian Olympic Association's offer to participate in the torch relay, Gill said he had politely refused. "I do not think I should participate in the run. It is an exclusive right of sportspersons," he said.
Gill clarified that he would participate in the event as the country's sports minister. "I will be there as sports minister either at the starting point or at the finishing line of the torch relay," he said.

Courtesy:timesofindia.com
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