Sports Ministry Suspends Newly Appointed WFI Body Amid Controversy

New Delhi- In a significant development on December 24, the Sports Ministry took decisive action by suspending the newly appointed Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) committee led by Sanjay Singh, an aide to Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. This abrupt decision came just three days after Sanjay Singh assumed the role of WFI chief, succeeding Brij Bhushan. The ministry criticized the selection process, citing haste and a lack of adherence to systematic procedures.

The ministry stated, "It appears that the newly elected body is under the complete control of the former office-bearers with complete disregard for the Sports Code."

Olympic medalist Vinesh Phogat expressed hope that the changes at WFI would resonate globally, empowering women in the sport. She emphasized the need for WFI leadership, under Sanjay Singh, to prioritize the welfare of wrestlers, especially women. Vinesh expressed optimism that future generations would not face the challenges witnessed during Brij Bhushan's tenure.

The replacement of Brij Bhushan by Sanjay Singh prompted an emotional response from another Olympic medalist, Sakshi Malik, who announced her retirement from wrestling. Sakshi, along with Vinesh and Bajrang Punia, had previously protested against Brij Bhushan for months, accusing him of sexual harassment.

Despite the Sports Ministry's announcement that junior national competitions would commence by year-end, with a stress on providing wrestlers at least 15 days' notice for adequate preparation, the ministry suspended the new WFI body led by Sanjay Singh. The reason cited was the lack of compliance with rules and regulations. The ministry deemed the announcement of national competitions by the President on December 21 as against established protocol.

In response to the suspension, sources from Sanjay Singh's camp indicated their intention to take legal action, stating, "We are preparing to address this matter legally; we will contest the suspension decision; our legal team is working on it."

The ministry also expressed concern that the new body was being influenced by previous officials accused of sexual harassment. It noted that the federation was operating from premises allegedly belonging to former office-bearers, where allegations of sexual harassment had been made and were currently under legal investigation.

On December 23, Sakshi Malik criticized the WFI for choosing Gonda, the stronghold of ousted leader Brij Bhushan Singh, as the venue for the junior national championships. This development marks a crucial turn in the ongoing battle for the welfare and integrity of Indian wrestling.

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