The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has withdrawn Indian wrestlers from the upcoming World Championships in Tirana, Albania, citing government interference. According to a report from Sportstar, in a letter to United World Wrestling (UWW) president Nenad Lalovic, WFI chief Sanjay Singh highlighted ongoing issues stemming from the Union Sports Ministry’s involvement in WFI’s operations, particularly after its de-recognition in December 2023.
Wrestlers’ protest and court ruling
Prominent wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Satyawart Kadian, have been advocating for an administrator to take over WFI’s operations instead of an elected body. Based on this demand, the Delhi High Court directed the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to form an ad-hoc committee to oversee WFI’s functions. Despite IOA’s support for WFI, Sanjay claims the Sports Ministry’s December 24 de-recognition letter has continued to disrupt WFI’s operations.
Impact of court orders on trials
A court order on October 4 prevented WFI from conducting selection trials for the World Championships, especially in non-Olympic weight categories scheduled for October 28-31. While WFI had conducted a talent search and was willing to send selected athletes, the Sports Ministry’s interference led to the decision to withdraw entries for the Championships.
WFI Appeals to UWW and IOC
The WFI has requested the UWW to invoke Article 6.3 of its constitution, which calls for preserving the autonomy of national sports federations, and to forward the letter to the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The WFI accused the Sports Ministry of violating this autonomy and sought formal action to prevent the Ministry from receiving support in future IOC events.
Wrestlers Allegedly Pressuring for WFI Suspension
Sanjay also accused protesting wrestlers of being determined to get WFI suspended, regardless of the impact on others. Interestingly, despite these challenges, WFI has been able to field athletes in the ongoing Under-23 World Championships in Tirana.
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