Indian wrestling continues to face turmoil as the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has withdrawn the Indian team from the Senior World Championships scheduled for October 28-31 in Albania. The decision stems from an ongoing administrative mess and court orders that have plagued the sport in recent months.
WFI President Sanjay Singh has accused the Sports Ministry of “continued interference in the autonomy of the WFI.” He cited a December 2023 order from the Ministry directing the WFI to cease operations and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to form an ad-hoc committee.
Despite the Sports Ministry’s suspension, the Delhi High Court restored the mandate of an ad-hoc committee in August 2023. However, the IOA disbanded the committee, leading to further confusion.
The WFI’s announcement of selection trials for the Senior National Championships was met with a contempt plea from wrestler Satyawart Kadian. The court ruled that the ad-hoc committee should conduct the trials, prompting the WFI to withdraw its circular.
Meanwhile, the IOA has filed an affidavit stating its decision not to form an ad-hoc panel and interfere with the WFI’s autonomy. However, the Sports Ministry’s December 2023 order remains a point of contention.
Singh has written to the United World Wrestling (UWW) President, requesting the invocation of Article 6.3 of UWW regulations to preserve the autonomy of national federations. He has also asked UWW to forward the complaint to the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The ongoing turmoil has impacted domestic tournaments, selection trials, national camps, and international participation. The Senior World Championships would have provided an opportunity for young wrestlers to compete against the best.
“This is the start of a new Olympic cycle, and we need fresh talents at the world stage,” said a WFI official. “If WFI is not able to organize trials and championships, it will impact wrestling in the country.”
