WFI to challenge suspension, calls for executive committee meeting

NEW DELHI: In a defiant move against the suspension imposed by the

Sports Ministry

, the

Wrestling Federation of India

(WFI) has declared its intent to challenge the government's decision in court next week. The suspension, issued on December 24, alleged violations of the

National Sports Code

and the

WFI

constitution, merely three days after the Federation conducted its elections.

WFI president

Sanjay Singh

firmly expressed the Federation's rejection of the suspension and its refusal to recognize the ad-hoc panel formed by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to oversee daily operations.
He underscored the critical need for a well-functioning federation, citing recent decisions by the ad-hoc panel that left certain weight categories unrepresented in the upcoming

Zagreb Open

.

"You have seen how the team for the Zagreb Open was announced. Five weight categories will go unrepresented. This will happen in the absence of a proper Federation," Singh told PTI, emphasizing the consequences of not having a functioning governing body.
Singh criticized the ad-hoc panel's decision-making process, especially in the selection of the Indian team, pointing out the lack of trials for certain wrestlers. "If certain wrestlers were unavailable in their respective categories, then why were their replacements not sought?" he questioned.

Highlighting the importance of a democratic and transparent selection process, Singh conveyed concerns from wrestlers who felt they deserved a chance to prove themselves through fair trials.
"I have been getting calls from wrestlers who thought they were worthy of a place in the Indian team. They said they could have made the team if they were given a fair chance to prove themselves through trials. That is why you need a proper federation in place," he asserted.
Simultaneously, the WFI has called for an Executive Committee meeting scheduled for January 16 to address the ongoing situation. The agenda circulated for the meeting includes discussions on "explaining, defining, and interpreting certain provisions of the constitution."

The meeting notice was issued on December 31, and one of the key points is to discuss the formation of the ad-hoc panel and the hosting of the National Championships in various age groups.
"We need a properly functioning Federation. We are taking the matter to court next week. This suspension is not acceptable to us because we were elected democratically," declared Singh, outlining the WFI's determination to contest the suspension through legal means.
(With inputs from PTI)