The Delhi High Court is considering the formation of an ad hoc committee to manage the suspended Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). Justice Sachin Datta has granted the Union Sports Ministry another opportunity to clarify its stance on managing the federation’s affairs after the dissolution of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) ad hoc committee.
The court criticized the ministry for failing to file an affidavit explaining its decision to suspend the WFI and the circumstances surrounding the dissolution of the IOA’s ad hoc committee. Justice Datta indicated that he may appoint an ad hoc committee if the ministry does not provide a clear explanation.
The court’s consideration stems from an application filed by four wrestlers, including Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist Bajrang Punia, who sought directions to the ministry not to revoke the WFI’s suspension. The wrestlers also requested the appointment of a one-man committee to oversee the management of the WFI.
The IOA had dissolved its ad hoc committee on March 18, citing the lifting of the WFI’s ban by the United World Wrestling (UWW) and the successful completion of selection trials. However, the wrestlers argued that the ministry’s suspension order remained in effect.
The ministry’s counsel requested a week’s time to file an affidavit, claiming that the response needed approval from the Joint Secretary, who was out of the country. The wrestlers’ counsel alleged that the ministry’s stance was dependent on whether the “ousted gentleman” (former WFI president Sanjay Singh) received a ticket for the upcoming elections.
The WFI, represented by senior advocate Dayanan Krishnan, informed the court that a coordinate bench had issued notice in the federation’s plea challenging the ministry’s order suspending the elected executive committee.
The IOA, in its affidavit, stated that it withdrew the ad hoc committee to avoid conflict with the Olympic Charter and UWW rules. It emphasized that the WFI’s recognition by the UWW is paramount and that the NOC cannot interfere in the affairs of NSFs.
The court has adjourned the matter for further hearing, awaiting the ministry’s affidavit and the wrestlers’ response.
