IOA Forms 3-Member Ad-Hoc Committee to Oversee WFI Operations

New Delhi: The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has formed a three-member ad hoc committee to manage the daily operations of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI).

This decision comes after the sports ministry suspended WFI for disregarding its own constitution in decision-making. Bhupinder Singh Bajwa, president of the Wushu Association of India, will chair the panel, joined by hockey Olympian M M Somaya and former international shuttler Manjusha Kanwar.

The Sports Ministry’s suspension followed the recent election of new WFI office bearers, including Sanjay Singh as president. The IOA alleges that the newly-elected officials made arbitrary decisions, violating constitutional provisions and principles of good governance.

IOA President PT Usha emphasized the importance of governance norms and adherence to ensure fair play and transparency. The ad hoc committee’s responsibilities include overseeing athlete selection, international event entries, sports activities, financial management, website maintenance, and related tasks.

This is not the first time an ad hoc committee has been formed; Bajwa was also part of a committee established in April for similar purposes. The recent elections, delayed due to court cases, took place on December 21, with Sanjay winning the presidency. However, controversies arose when national championships were hastily announced, leading to the government’s suspension of WFI.

Sanjay’s election prompted notable wrestlers like Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia to make significant decisions, including retirement and returning awards. The suspension also cited concerns that the new WFI body was under the control of former office-bearers, contrary to the National Sports Code.