Suspension Is Unacceptable | WFI chief Sanjay Singh declares
Introduction
The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) is facing a major challenge as it deals with its suspension by the Sports Ministry. The federation, which was newly elected, believes that the suspension is unjust and has decided to take the matter to court. In addition, the WFI has called for an Executive Committee meeting to discuss the way forward. This article will delve into the details surrounding the suspension, the reasons behind it, and the actions taken by the WFI to challenge it.
The Suspension and its Impact
The WFI was suspended by the Sports Ministry on December 24, just three days after the federation conducted its elections. The suspension was based on alleged violations of the National Sports Code and the WFI constitution. However, the WFI has strongly contested these allegations, asserting that the suspension is unacceptable as they were democratically elected. Due to his strong relationship with the outgoing WFI head, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the nation’s top wrestlers, Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, and Vinesh Phogat, have expressed dissatisfaction with the new leader since the WFI body’s election.
Challenging the Suspension
President of the WFI, Sanjay Singh, has made it clear that the federation will not accept the suspension without a fight. The WFI plans to challenge the suspension in court, with the case expected to be heard in the coming week. Singh believes that a properly functioning federation is crucial for the development of wrestling in the country.
The Role of the Ad-hoc Panel
The WFI also expressed its refusal to recognize the ad-hoc panel that has been constituted by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to manage the day-to-day affairs of the sport. The WFI argues that the ad-hoc panel is not equipped to handle the responsibilities and deliver results in crucial times. They cite an example of the team selection for the Zagreb Open, where five weight categories went unrepresented, questioning why suitable replacements were not sought.
The Executive Committee Meeting
To discuss the suspension and plan the way forward, the WFI has called for an Executive Committee meeting on January 16. The meeting aims to address various issues, including the formation of the ad-hoc panel and the hosting of the National Championships in different age groups. The WFI hopes that this meeting will provide clarity and help chart a path towards resolving the suspension.
The Wrestlers’ Perspective
While the WFI is taking proactive steps to challenge the suspension, there are mixed opinions among the wrestlers themselves. Some elite wrestlers, such as Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, and Vinesh Phogat, have expressed their dismay over the new WFI chief, Sanjay Singh, due to his close association with the former WFI head, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Malik even announced her retirement from the sport in protest against Singh’s election.
On the other hand, junior wrestlers from Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh have voiced their grievances against the three wrestlers, blaming them for halting their careers. They accuse Punia, Malik, and Phogat of prioritizing their own interests over the development of younger wrestlers.
Young wrestlers from Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh, meanwhile, protested against the three wrestlers in the nation’s capital on Wednesday, accusing them of having put an end to their careers.
The Call for Fair Trials and Opportunities
One of the main concerns raised by wrestlers is the lack of fair trials and opportunities. Wrestlers who believe they were deserving of a place in the Indian team have expressed their disappointment at not being given a chance to prove themselves through trials. They argue that a proper federation is necessary to ensure transparency and equal opportunities for all wrestlers.
The WFI’s Defense
The WFI has consistently maintained that it has not flouted any rules or regulations. According to their interpretation of the constitution, the President has the power to make decisions, and the Secretary General is bound to execute those decisions. They argue that the suspension is based on a misunderstanding and that the WFI should be allowed to continue its operations.
The Future of Wrestling in India
The suspension of the WFI has created uncertainty about the future of wrestling in India. The ad-hoc panel has already announced the scheduling of senior Nationals and age group championships. However, it remains to be seen whether the wrestlers, who are the main stakeholders in the sport, will choose to participate in events organized by the WFI or those conducted by the ad-hoc committee.
Conclusion
The Wrestling Federation of India finds itself in a challenging situation as it navigates the suspension imposed by the Sports Ministry. With a determination to challenge the suspension in court and a planned Executive Committee meeting, the WFI is taking proactive steps to address the issue. The outcome of these efforts will have a significant impact on the future of wrestling in India and the opportunities available to wrestlers across the country.
