Mumbai: Amidst the furore created by Bollywood superstar Salman Khan following his controversial ‘raped woman’ comment during a promotional event for his upcoming film ‘Sultan’, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has taken a U-turn on the issue making it clear that the actor will continue to be the Goodwill Ambassador for the upcoming Rio Olympics.
Audio: Felt like raped woman during Sultan shoot, says Salman; apologises
Rakesh Gupta, IOA Joint Secretary and India’s chef-de-mission was earlier quoted in a media report stating that Salman’s comments “as goodwill ambassador would send the wrong message to all the sportspersons in the country.”
Gupta also pointed out that Salman should have given a different answer or cited some other example while talking about his training regime for the film.
Read: Salman Khan to be dropped as India's goodwill ambassador at Rio 2016?
When The Asian Age contacted IOA Vice-President Tarlochan Singh, he said: “Whatever statement Salman made does not concern the IOA. Gupta was wrongly quoted by the media. Salman will continue to be the Goodwill Ambasador at the Rio Olympics.”
Salman drew flak for his comments that even reached the doors of The National Commission for Women (NCW) who demanded an apology and an explanation from him.
Watch: Salman Khan to apologise for his ‘rape’ remark? His expression says it all!
While Salman is yet to apologise for his remarks, his father Salim Khan defended him.
"Undoubtedly what Salman said was wrong but his intention was not wrong," the senior Khan tweeted.
Undoubtedly what Salman said is wrong, the simili, example and the context. The intention was not wrong.
— Salim Khan (@luvsalimkhan) June 21, 2016
Earlier, sportspersons even questioned Salman’s appointment as brand ambassador.
