Dutee Chand Reveals She Is in a Same-Sex Relationship, Says It Is a Personal Decision and Should Be Respected
The sprinter is busy with the IAAF World Championships (Athletics) preparations, which will take place between September 27 to October 06 2019.
India’s champion sprinter Dutee Chand has revealed that she is in a same-sex relationship and thus becomes the first Indian athlete to acknowledge it. In her bold revelation, Dutee said that she is in a relationship with a girl from her hometown Chaka Gopalpur in Odisha. The Asian Games silver medalist, however, has not disclosed the identity of the person believing that she will become “the centre of undue attention”. Dutee Gears Up to Train Abroad with Eyes Set on 2020 Olympics.
"I have found someone who is my soulmate. I believe everyone should have the freedom to be with whoever they decide they want to be with. I have always supported the rights of those who want to be in a same-sex relationship. It is an individual person's choice. Currently, my focus is on the World Championships and the Olympic Games but in the future, I would like to settle down with her," Dutee told The Sunday Express.
Dutee’s silver medals at the last year’s Asian Games in the women's 100m and 200m finals was India's first in 20 years and 16 years respectively. Citing the law, Dutee said it is a personal decision and should be respected. "I have always believed that everyone should have the freedom to love. There is no greater emotion than love and it should not be denied. The Supreme Court of India has also struck down the old law. I believe nobody has the right to judge me as an athlete because of my decision to be with who I want. It is a personal decision, which should be respected. I will continue to strive to win medals for India at international meets," Dutee said. Dutee Chand, India's Biggest Sprinting Star, to be Featured in a Book.
Dutee also added that she needs support as she looks to compete for another five to seven years. "I wanted to be with someone who will encourage me to continue being a sportsperson. I have been a sprinter for the past 10 years and I will perhaps continue to run for the next five to seven years. I travel around the world to compete. It is not easy. Mujhe kisi ka sahara bhi chahiye (I need someone who will support me on the personal front)," she said.
The sprinter is busy with the IAAF World Championships (Athletics) preparations, which will take place between September 27 to October 06 2019. After the World Championships, she will then start her training for the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 19, 2019 11:55 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).