Sports Ministry Asks IOA To Form Ad-Hoc Panel To Run Wrestling Body

New Delhi: The Sports Ministry has asked the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to establish an interim panel to oversee the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) amidst a dispute with newly elected officials. The elected management, led by Sanjay Singh, has been suspended, prompting concerns about governance and integrity.

In a letter to the IOA, the Sports Ministry highlighted the need for immediate corrective measures to ensure good governance in sports organizations. The temporary committee is expected to manage WFI affairs, including athlete selection and event coordination, to prevent disruption for wrestlers.

The move comes after concerns raised by wrestler Sakshee Malikkh regarding upcoming junior national competitions, leading to the suspension of all activities by the newly-elected WFI panel. The Sports Ministry criticized the panel for allegedly being under the influence of former office bearers and disregarding the Sports Code.

The WFI’s business operations, controlled by former office bearers, have been cited as problematic, with allegations of sexual harassment at their premises currently under court review. Former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh, accused of harassment by top wrestlers, had stepped aside earlier. Despite assurances of fair elections, Sanjay Singh, a loyalist of Brij Bhushan, secured victory in the recent election against Commonwealth Games gold medallist Anita Sheoran, supported by protesting wrestlers.

The Sports Ministry emphasized the urgency of addressing the governance crisis to ensure the well-being of wrestling athletes and the principles of good governance in sports organizations. Another round of WFI elections may be on the horizon as the dispute continues.