PTC News Desk: Following the suspension of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) by the central authorities, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) swiftly established an interim committee to oversee its operations.
Chaired by Bhupinder Singh Bajwa, the ad hoc committee comprises members MM Somaya and Manjusha Kanwar. The WFI faced suspension by the sports ministry in the aftermath of controversial decisions, notably the announcement of U-15 and U-20 national championships in the constituency of the embattled former chief, Brijbhushana Sharan Singh in Gonda.
In a recent development, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) raised concerns regarding the actions taken by the newly appointed President and officials of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). The IOA highlighted their apparent arbitrary decisions, which contravened constitutional provisions and disregarded fundamental principles of good governance, as emphasised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
/ptc-news/media/media_files/mk02KYjAANo28BxWl5s1.jpg)
In a letter penned by IOC chief PT Usha, it was explicitly stated that the actions taken by the WFI leadership disregarded due process and overturned the rulings of the ad hoc committee appointed by the IOA.
Also Read: Dense fog hits flights' schedule in Delhi; check details
The panel, led by Sanjay Singh, known for his close association with former Wrestling Federation chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who faced allegations of sexual harassment, faced suspension on Sunday. This decision came amidst vehement protests from wrestlers, including Olympic medalist Sakshee Malikkh, expressing discontent with the ongoing situation within the federation.
Also Read: Bharat Nyay Yatra: Congress' 2024 election strategy?
Sports Ministry suspends WFI amid influence concerns
The Sports Ministry issued a compelling statement on Sunday, December 24, suspending the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). The ministry cited ongoing influence from former office bearers, previously suspended over sexual harassment allegations, within the newly elected board led by Sanjay Singh.
The wrestling federation has faced persistent turmoil since early 2023, triggered by widespread protests from eminent wrestlers against former president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
Also Read: Initial probe points to Iranian role in tanker attack
Sakshee Malik's critique of WFI: Leadership turmoil persists
Wrestler Sakshee Malik voiced her discontent with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), shedding light on a disturbing pattern of harassment and intimidation during Brij Bhushan's tenure. The IOC and Sports Ministry stepped in, suspending the existing WFI board amid these revelations.
The prolonged leadership vacuum ended with Sanjay Singh's election as WFI president. However, hopes for change dwindled as wrestlers accused Sanjay of close ties to Brij Bhushan. Allegations surfaced that Sanjay wasn't just a business associate but also a trusted confidant of the former president.
Also Read: Cold wave hits China: Beijing endures record chill since 1951