Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) Indefinitely Suspended by United World Wrestling (UWW)
The United World Wrestling (UWW) has announced the indefinite suspension of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) following the postponement of crucial elections amidst protests and legal disputes. This decision has far-reaching implications for Indian wrestlers as they prepare for the upcoming World Championships.
Election Postponement Sparks Suspension
The suspension of the WFI by UWW stems from the ongoing postponement of elections to key positions within the organization. The delay, attributed to protests and legal battles, has resulted in the UWW’s decision to suspend the membership of the Indian wrestling body.
As a consequence of the suspension, Indian wrestlers will be unable to represent their country under the national flag at the forthcoming World Championships. Instead, they will compete as ‘neutral athletes’ at the Olympic-qualifying event scheduled to commence on September 16. This turn of events underscores the gravity of the situation and its impact on India’s wrestling contingent.
The election process within WFI has faced significant delays, prompting the UWW to issue a warning. An ad-hoc panel led by Bhupender Singh Bajwa was appointed by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on April 27 to oversee the elections. However, the panel failed to meet the 45-day deadline for conducting the elections.
Elections Nullified by Sports Ministry
Originally slated for May 7, the elections faced a setback when the Sports Ministry declared the process null and void. The subsequent delays were exacerbated by legal challenges and opposition from various state bodies seeking participation in the electoral process.
The indefinite suspension of the Wrestling Federation of India by the United World Wrestling has cast a shadow over the nation’s wrestling landscape. The postponement of elections, protests, and legal disputes have collectively led to this unprecedented decision, affecting the participation of Indian wrestlers at the upcoming World Championships. As the wrestling community awaits further developments, the focus remains on resolving the internal issues to ensure the timely representation of Indian athletes on the international stage.
