WFI Suspension Lifted

SPORTS

By Aniket Chakraborty Mar 11, 2025 Arrow

Suspension was imposed in December 2023 due to governance issues and hasty announcements of national trials.

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WFI elections in December 2023 saw Sanjay Singh’s panel win, backed by former president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

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Wrestlers like Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik protested in 2023, alleging sexual harassment by Brij Bhushan.

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Sanjay Singh’s controversial announcement of U15 and U20 nationals without proper notice led to the suspension.

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Ministry clarified suspension wasn’t termination, with WFI operations managed by an ad-hoc committee during the period.

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Ad-hoc committee led by Bhupinder Singh Bajwa oversaw WFI operations, ensuring compliance with sports regulations.

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WFI’s governance failures and procedural irregularities violated the National Sports Development Code of India, 2011.

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Delhi High Court reinstated ad-hoc committee in 2023 after wrestlers sought intervention over abuse allegations.

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Ministry emphasizes adherence to rules, requiring a 15-day notice for national competitions to ensure athlete preparation.

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