France has initiated a cyberbullying investigation following a complaint from Algerian Olympic boxing champion Imane Khelif. Khelif, who was at the center of a gender dispute during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, claims she has been the victim of severe online harassment. The investigation was launched after Khelif’s lawyer, Nabil Boudi, described the situation as a “fight for justice.”
Khelif, a 25-year-old gold medalist in the women’s 66kg weight class, reported that the cyberharassment started after her controversial victory. This case has drawn significant attention, with notable figures such as Donald Trump and Elon Musk becoming involved in the debate.
The Paris public prosecutor’s office announced that the cyberharassment probe was officially opened on Tuesday. The Central Office for Combating Crimes against Humanity and Hate Crimes has been assigned to handle the investigation.
According to recent reports, the cyberbullying complaint involves high-profile individuals, including former US President Donald Trump and author JK Rowling. Trump has publicly criticized the inclusion of transgender athletes in women’s sports, which has intensified the controversy surrounding Khelif’s case.
During the Paris Olympics, Khelif’s performance against Italy’s Angela Carini stirred additional controversy. Khelif won the bout in just 46 seconds, which led to criticism and claims of unfairness from various quarters, including Trump and Rowling.
Khelif and Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting faced disqualification from the 2023 world championships due to gender eligibility issues but were cleared for the Paris Games. The International Boxing Association (IBA) and its Russian president, Umar Kremlev, had previously questioned the gender eligibility of both athletes.
Despite the controversy, Khelif remains steadfast, asserting her identity and defending her achievements. She emphasized her status as a woman and expressed her frustration with the ongoing defamation campaign against her.
Following her return to Algeria, Khelif was warmly received at the Algiers airport, celebrated for her achievements and hailed as a symbol of resilience against oppression and injustice.
The International Olympic Committee has been urged to consider a review of gender eligibility criteria, but its president, Thomas Bach, stated that any changes would need to be supported by a scientifically valid system, not by political interests or defamation.
Reference Links:
- Paris 2024 Olympic Games
- Donald Trump’s Statement
- JK Rowling’s Comments
- Central Office for Combating Crimes
Source: ChannelsTv
