In response to stern criticism from the Sports Ministry, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has taken a decisive step by relocating its office away from the residence of former president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
The Sports Ministry had recently suspended the newly-elected WFI body, led by Sanjay Singh, a close associate of Brij Bhushan. The suspension was a result of various allegations and procedural discrepancies, with concerns raised about the new body operating under the influence of former office-bearers, contradicting the National Sports Code.
Sanjay Singh addressed accusations of the WFI office operating from Brij Bhushan’s residence, stating that the newly elected team is actively searching for a new workplace. He emphasized their willingness to swiftly relocate to any location directed by the government.
The controversy unfolded following the WFI elections on December 21, 2023, where Sanjay Singh’s victory was met with resistance from top wrestlers, including Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia. Discontent among athletes stemmed from the belief that the new WFI body would be influenced by Brij Bhushan.
The Sports Ministry highlighted several issues with the functioning of the new WFI committee, criticizing decisions such as hastily announcing the organization of U-15 and U-20 nationals without proper procedure or notice to wrestlers for preparation.
Simultaneously, the Indian Olympic Association has announced the formation of a three-member ad hoc committee to manage the day-to-day affairs of the suspended Wrestling Federation of India.
Brief Summary: The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) shifts its office away from former president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh’s residence following the suspension of the newly-elected WFI body by the Sports Ministry. Controversy surrounds the new body’s alleged influence by former office-bearers, prompting a relocation amidst procedural criticisms.
