It seems the forces opposed to women's presence in the sports arena are still active, as is evident from their successful attempt to get women out of a long distance swimming contest in Chandpur. The name of the organisation that the zealots have founded speaks volumes for their plans and programmes. The self-styled "Anti-Islamic activity resistance committee" had threatened to launch a movement if women swimmers were allowed to take part in the long distance event. They arranged a protest rally and submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner of Chandpur demanding exclusion of the event for female swimmers. Their demand was accepted. But what about those poor girls who have been knocked out of the tournament for something they are hard-put to accept? The swimming careers of the six girls, who were ready to enter the fray, have been badly jolted.

This is capitulation. The problem with accepting such a demand is that there is no knowing where the obscurantists will stop or what they will ask for the next time around. Swimming is a popular sport and pastime all over the world, and is believed to be a physical exertion of the most beneficial kind. It is more than a sport. Our boys and girls have a natural ability to swim and are doing pretty well in regional contests. It is a decent sport which has nothing that can be objected to. But, well, the orthodox have their own interpretation of the sport.

Now, it is time to have a closer look at the recent developments. Should we leave our women out of some popular sports and games only because some people feel that women should stay indoors? If not, then the government and all concerned should take a firm stand on the issue and neutralise the threat with timely and effective steps. It is not a good thing that sports and religion are being mixed up by the ultra conservative elements.