In a major development for Indian wrestling, the Sports Ministry has revoked the suspension imposed on the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), bringing an end to months of uncertainty and allowing for the resumption of crucial activities, including selection trials for the upcoming Asian Championship in Amman.
Suspension and Its Aftermath
The ministry had suspended the WFI on December 24, 2023, citing lapses in governance and procedural integrity. The decision followed the election of a new governing body on December 21, which quickly faced scrutiny over its operations. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) was tasked with forming an ad-hoc panel to manage the Federation’s affairs.
The controversy deepened when the Sanjay Singh-led administration announced the hosting of Under-15 and Under-20 National Championships in Nandini Nagar, Gonda—the political stronghold of former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who is facing allegations of sexual harassment. This move triggered government intervention and subsequent suspension of WFI’s activities.
Ministry’s Justification for Revoking Suspension
The Sports Ministry, in an official order issued on Monday, stated that WFI had taken corrective measures to comply with governance requirements. The government concluded that lifting the suspension was necessary to ensure Indian wrestlers’ participation in upcoming international tournaments, including the 2026 Asian Games and the 2028 Olympic Games.
A verification committee was formed to assess complaints that WFI was still operating from Brij Bhushan’s residence. The inspection confirmed that WFI had relocated its office to East Vinod Nagar, New Delhi, thereby satisfying the ministry’s compliance requirements.
WFI’s Response and Future Course of Action
WFI President Sanjay Singh welcomed the ministry’s decision, stating, “I thank the government for taking this step. It will allow us to function smoothly. The athletes were suffering due to lack of competitions.”
However, the ministry has laid down strict conditions for WFI:
- Maintain a balance of power among elected office bearers.
- Disassociate from suspended or terminated officials.
- Submit a compliance undertaking within four weeks.
- Ensure free, fair, and transparent selection for international tournaments as per Sports Code and United World Wrestling (UWW) regulations.
General Secretary Prem Chand Lochab, who was elected from a rival camp, will be closely monitored for compliance with these directives.
Indian Wrestlers Back on the Mat
With the suspension lifted, WFI will soon call an Executive Committee (EC) meeting and issue a circular for selection trials ahead of the Asian Championship in Amman, Jordan, scheduled for March 25.
During the suspension, Indian wrestlers missed key Ranking Series tournaments in Zagreb and Albania. Protestors, including Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, and Satyawart Kadian, had argued that WFI lacked the authority to select national teams while under suspension.
Despite legal interventions, the UWW had reinstated WFI on January 13, 2024, warning the IOA against interference. The UWW had also threatened further action if governance issues persisted.
Wrestlers and Coaches React
A Haryana-based wrestling coach expressed relief, stating, “The young wrestlers suffered for no fault of theirs. They missed out on competitions and training camps. This decision should have come sooner.”
Meanwhile, Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, and Sakshi Malik—who spearheaded protests against Brij Bhushan—continue to push for systemic reforms in the sport. While Brij Bhushan faces an ongoing trial for sexual harassment, he has denied all allegations.
Political Fallout
Following the protests, Vinesh Phogat joined the Congress Party, winning the Julana seat in the Haryana state elections. Bajrang Punia has since taken up the role of Chief of the All India Kisan Congress (AIKC).
The Road Ahead
With the WFI’s reinstatement, Indian wrestling is set to regain momentum. The focus now shifts to fair governance, athlete welfare, and international success, as the Federation works towards restoring trust and transparency in the sport.
