Sports Ministry Intervention: Wrestling Federation of India Temporarily Halted Over Leadership Issues
In a surprising turn of events, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) finds itself under suspension by the Union Sports Ministry, responding to concerns over the leadership decisions made under the newly elected president, Sanjay Singh. The official release on December 24 outlined the suspension, citing allegations of hasty decision-making and a failure to adhere to established rules and regulations.
President Sanjay Singh, who assumed office on December 21 after a successful election, drew attention with his announcement that the U-15 and U-20 nationals would be held in Nandini Nagar, Gonda (UP) before the year's end. However, the Sports Ministry argued that such declarations needed a 15-day notice for proper player preparation, emphasizing the importance of adhering to existing protocols.
It is crucial to note that the suspension, as clarified by the Sports Ministry, does not equate to the termination of the Wrestling Federation of India. Instead, it serves as a temporary measure until the new body aligns with due processes and conforms to the established rules within the WFI constitution.
A Sports Ministry official shed light on the reasons behind the suspension, pointing to the violation of constitutional provisions, specifically clause 3(e) of the preamble. This clause underscores the WFI's objective to organize national championships in accordance with UWW rules, following a process dictated by the Executive Committee.
Sanjay Singh's victory in the elections on December 21, where his panel secured the majority of posts, has led to a series of controversies within the wrestling community. Rio Olympic bronze medallist Sakshi Malik, expressing her disappointment at the absence of a female president, announced her retirement immediately following the election results.
The election fallout also saw appeals from Olympic medallists Bajrang Punia and Sakshi, urging Sports Minister Anurag Thakur to intervene and prevent individuals associated with the outgoing chief, Brij Bhushan Singh, from participating in the WFI polls.
In response to Singh's presidency, Bajrang Punia went a step further by announcing his decision to return the Padma Shri award as a symbolic protest against the new WFI leadership. The controversies surrounding the election continue to escalate, with Deaflympics gold medallist Virender Singh Yadav, or Goonga Pehlwan, deciding to return his Padma Shri in solidarity with fellow wrestlers opposing Singh's election.
As the suspension takes effect, the wrestling community faces a period of uncertainty, raising questions about the future direction of the sport in India and the need for transparent and responsible leadership within the WFI.
