By Express News Service

CHENNAI: As ailing 1998 Asian Games gold medallist Dingko Singh gets ready for a chemotherapy session in Imphal on Tuesday, India opener Gautam Gambhir has come out in support with financial assistance.

Dingko, who works as a coach at Sports Authority of India, has been diagnosed with bile duct cancer and 70 per cent of his liver has been removed.

After learning about Dingko’s agony, Gambhir felt sad.

“It is disturbing to note that Dingko has been left alone to fight for his life,” he told Express.

“It is really tragic the way we treat our sportspersons. I mean here is a guy who has won gold at Asian Games, Arjuna Award and is a Padma Shri. I am sure there are ways to look after him. I have done something which I won't like to publicise here.”

Sports Minister Vijay Goel a couple of days ago pledged all support to the boxer. However, by then the boxer had to be shifted to Imphal due to the high cost of treatment in New Delhi.

“We have decided to come to Imphal because of the cost and we found a hospital where he can undergo chemotherapy,” his wife Babai told Express from Imphal. His long-time coach Ibomcha Singh, also the SAI in-charge of Khuman Lampak SAG Centre too is monitoring the situation.

“I went to meet him yesterday and found him in good health. We have been lending whatever support we can to him,” he said.

Beijing Olympic Games bronze Vijender was shocked to hear about Dingko and hoped he will recover soon.

“I just came back yesterday night and to hear about Dingko was really shocking,” he said.

“He is a hero and a rockstar. I know him and he inspired me to become a boxer.” He too is thinking of ways to help Dingko. Dingko had to sell the property for treatment. Apparently, he has already spent more

than Rs 10 lakh, without any assistance from the sports ministry.

