Former WFI Chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh Reacts to Suspension, Emphasizes Democratic Process
In a dramatic twist, the Union Sports Ministry has suspended the newly elected body of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), led by President Sanjay Singh. The move has sparked varied responses, with former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh addressing the situation, and wrestler Sakshi Malik expressing her perspective on the development.
Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who served as the chief of WFI, responded to the suspension by emphasizing that the elections were conducted democratically under the directives of the Supreme Court. He stated, "Now it's their (federation members) decision if they wish to talk to the government or take the legal course of action. I have nothing to do with this..."
Singh clarified that Sanjay Singh, the newly elected president, is not a relative, and the announcement regarding the U-15 and U-20 nationals in Nandini Nagar aimed at resuming sports events. He added, "I have worked 12 years for the wrestlers. Time will tell if I have done justice... Now decisions and talks with the government will be done by the elected people of the federation..."
On the other hand, wrestler Sakshi Malik, who recently announced her retirement following the WFI elections, shared her viewpoint on the suspension. Malik stated, "I have not seen anything in writing yet. I don't know whether only Sanjay Singh has been suspended or the entire body has been suspended... Our fight was not with the government. Our fight is for women wrestlers; I have announced my retirement but want that the upcoming wrestlers should get justice."
Malik expressed optimism about the suspension, describing it as a step forward for the betterment of wrestlers. She reiterated that the struggle was for the rights of daughters and sisters, emphasizing that this is just the first step. Regarding her retirement decision, Malik indicated that she would await the federation's formation to provide further insights.
Union Sports Ministry asks Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to create an Ad-Hoc committee to manage and control the affairs of Wrestling Federation Of India(WFI): Sports Ministry
The suspension of the WFI's newly elected body has ignited discussions within the wrestling community and beyond. As the elected members grapple with potential legal actions or dialogues with the government, the future of wrestling administration in India remains uncertain. The developments surrounding the WFI will undoubtedly continue to unfold, impacting the trajectory of the sport and the athletes it represents.
