Ranchi, June 6: Powerlifting may be a popular sport among women in other states, but not in Jharkhand. Participation of only three women in the state powerlifting championship organised here today was an indication of the sport’s popularity among the fairer sex of the state.

The three women powerlifters — Sunita Singh, Bhagwati Devi and Rashmi Shanta Toppo —who participated in the championship attributed the situation to the lack of facilities and job opportunities.

“The women powerlifters in the state are a neglected lot. Facilities are scarce and women find it very difficult to pursue powerlifting, which is essentially believed to be a ‘man’s’ game,” said Sunita Singh, who is a security personnel in Telco.

Sunita, who was ranked sixth in the world women powerlifting championship in 1984, was the first to introduce the game in the state. Sunita said it was an expensive sport as the powerlifters were required to maintain a “proper” diet, which is a must for the game.

Bhagwati Devi, who works as a security personnel at the Tinplate Company of India Limited at Jamshedpur, agreed with Sunita. “It is an expensive game. Funds should be provided by companies or institutions,” Devi said.

Rashmi Shanta Toppo employed with the Central Coalfield Limited in Ranchi said, “Women will be more interested if some sort of employment or service is ensured.”

Jharkhand Powerlifting Association secretary Inderjeet Singh also agreed that participation of women is very low.