Former India boxer Dingko Singh passes away; Kiren Rijiju, Vijender Singh pay tribute
NEW DELHI: Former India boxer and Asian Games gold medalist Dingko Singh passed away on Thursday after a prolonged illness. He was 42.
Regarded as one of the finest boxers India has ever produced, Dingko had clinched a gold medal at the 1998 Bangkok Asian Games.
Kiren Rijiju, the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, condoled the demise of Dingko and credited the boxer for sparking a craze for the sport in India.
“I’m deeply saddened by the demise of Shri Dingko Singh. One of the finest boxers India has ever produced, Dinko’s gold medal at 1998 Bangkok Asian Games sparked the Boxing chain reaction in India. I extend my sincere condolences to the bereaved family. RIP Dinko,” Rijiju tweeted.
Dingko not only won medals for India throughout his renowned career, but he also served as an inspiration to many generations of boxers, including the renowned Mary Kom, Sarita Laishram, and Vijender.