LOCOG apologises to India for opening ceremony incident

London, Aug 1 (IANS):

The London Olympics organisers have apologised to the Indian contingent for the opening ceremony incident which saw a Bangalore-based woman parading with the country’s athletes.

The London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) said the woman, identified as Madhura Nagendra of Bangalore, was a cast member of the Danny Boyle-directed ceremony and got access to the Indian Olympics squad with a valid accreditation.

“We extend a sincere apology for the unfortunate incident that occurred during the opening ceremony,” James Macleod, LOCOG head of communications, wrote in response to the letter sent by India’s acting Chef de Mission P.K. Muralidharan Raja.

“A lady joined the India delegation during their entry into the stadium and we have taken this matter very seriously. The athlete’s parade is a huge privilege for those who march and, therefore, it was regretful that this incident occurred,” Macleod said in the reply.

As part of the action against the woman, Macloed said they have revoked her accreditation.

“Our security teams have explained to us that the lady had a valid accreditation and was, therefore, able to access the tunnel prior to the field of play. We have taken appropriate measures to address the issue and also removed the accreditation of the person concerned.”