New Delhi: The Sports Ministry has lifted the suspension on the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), bringing an end to months of uncertainty in the sport. This decision paves the way for the resumption of various competitions, including the selection trials for the upcoming Asian Championship in Amman. The ministry had initially suspended WFI on December 24, 2023, citing operational irregularities. The suspension came just three days after the formation of the new WFI administration on December 21, which saw the return of Sanjay Singh, an associate of former WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, to a position of influence.
‘WFI Has Taken Corrective Steps’
Under Sanjay Singh’s leadership, WFI had announced plans to hold Under-15 and Under-20 National Championships in Nandini Nagar, Gonda—an area linked to Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who is facing allegations of sexual harassment. This move had displeased the government. The ministry, in its latest order, acknowledged that WFI has now taken corrective measures and, considering the broader interest of the sport and its athletes, decided to lift the suspension.
WFI Must Comply with Ministry Directives
Sanjay Singh expressed his gratitude for the decision, stating, “I thank the ministry for this decision. We can now function smoothly, which is crucial for the sport. Athletes were distressed as they could not participate in competitions.” However, the ministry has set specific guidelines for WFI to follow. These include ensuring a balanced distribution of power among elected officials and maintaining a clear separation from any suspended or dismissed members.
Affidavit to be Submitted Within Four Weeks
Newly elected Secretary-General Prem Chand Lochab belongs to the opposition camp, and the ministry’s directive is seen in that context. The ministry’s order states, “The WFI Executive Council must submit an affidavit within four weeks regarding compliance. Any violations may invite legal action, including penalties under the Sports Code.” Additionally, WFI must ensure that the selection process for all international competitions remains independent, fair, and transparent, in accordance with existing Sports Code provisions and the latest directives from United World Wrestling (UWW).
‘WFI Will Soon Resume Key Activities’
WFI President Singh assured that the federation would adhere to all guidelines. “We will soon convene an executive meeting and issue a circular regarding selection trials. There is no issue in complying with the ministry’s directives,” he said. The Asian Championship is scheduled to take place in Amman, Jordan, from March 25. Due to WFI’s suspension and court cases filed by prominent wrestlers like Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, and Satyawart Kadian, Indian wrestlers had missed ranking series tournaments in Zagreb and Albania.
UWW Recognizes Only WFI
Wrestlers leading the protests against Brij Bhushan had argued that WFI, being suspended, had no authority to select national teams. The court had directed the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to reinstate an ad-hoc panel to manage WFI affairs, but IOA refused, citing UWW’s exclusive recognition of WFI and its refusal to accept entries from an ad-hoc body.
‘Young Wrestlers Were Paying the Price’
UWW had also warned IOA that any interference in WFI’s administration could lead to another suspension. A coach from a prominent training center in Haryana stated, “It is a relief that the suspension has been lifted. Competitions were stalled, and young wrestlers were suffering through no fault of their own. There were no national camps, and they were missing crucial tournaments. The suspension should have been revoked much earlier.”
