Sports Ministry Lifts Suspension of Wrestling Federation of India
The Sports Ministry has lifted the suspension of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), allowing the body to resume its operations after a period of uncertainty. The decision, effective as of March 10, comes with a directive for the WFI’s newly elected Executive Committee to refrain from managing daily activities until further notice. This marks a significant development for Indian wrestling amid ongoing governance concerns.
The WFI faced suspension in December 2023 due to alleged procedural violations by its leadership. The Ministry’s latest move signals a step toward restoring normalcy in the federation. However, operational control remains restricted for now.
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On March 10, the WFI issued a directive stating, “The newly elected Executive Committee is instructed to refrain from overseeing and managing daily operations until further notice.” This suggests oversight will continue through alternative arrangements. The Ministry has not clarified who will handle routine functions.
On March 10, the WFI issued a directive stating, “The newly elected Executive Committee is instructed to refrain from overseeing and managing daily operations until further notice.” This suggests oversight will continue through alternative arrangements. The Ministry has not clarified who will handle routine functions.
The Sanjay Singh-led WFI was suspended after it announced junior nationals without proper notice, breaching its own constitution. The decision drew criticism from wrestlers and led to protests. The United World Wrestling (UWW) had also suspended WFI earlier, lifting it in February 2024.
The revocation could pave the way for smoother preparations for upcoming international events, including Olympic qualifiers. Indian wrestlers have faced challenges competing under the national flag due to the federation’s status. The latest decision may bring clarity to the sport’s administration.
The Ministry is expected to outline further guidelines for WFI’s operations soon. The federation’s leadership will likely seek to regain full control, while wrestlers await updates on trials and events. Developments in this ongoing saga will be closely watched in the coming days.
