NEW DELHI, March 11: The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has officially lifted the suspension on the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), reinstating its status as a National Sports Federation (NSF). This decision comes after months of turmoil and controversy within the Indian wrestling community, which saw widespread protests against the WFI leadership.

The WFI’s suspension was initially imposed following the announcement by newly elected president Sanjay Singh to hold the U-15 and U-20 national championships in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, in December 2023. This move was made amidst ongoing protests by prominent wrestlers like Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Bajrang Punia, who had been protesting since early 2023 against the WFI’s former president, Brij Bhushan Singh. The wrestlers accused Singh of sexual harassment, sparking widespread calls for reforms in the federation.

The situation worsened when, in August 2023, United World Wrestling (UWW), the global governing body for the sport, imposed a ban on the WFI after it failed to hold elections within the stipulated time frame. This further complicated the federation’s standing, leaving Indian wrestling in a state of uncertainty. The elections were delayed due to the ongoing protests and the serious allegations against Brij Bhushan Singh. As a result, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) formed an ad-hoc committee to manage the federation’s daily operations and ensure that Indian wrestling remained active in international competitions.

Elections were finally held in late December 2023, and Sanjay Singh was elected as the new president of WFI. However, his election reignited protests, as wrestlers alleged that he was closely aligned with the former president, Brij Bhushan Singh. Shortly after, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports suspended the federation again, citing concerns over the planned championships in Gonda.

In early 2024, UWW lifted its ban on the WFI, acknowledging the successful completion of elections and the organization of selection trials for upcoming international competitions. With this, the IOA dissolved its ad-hoc committee in March 2024, stating that the committee was no longer necessary as the WFI had regained its standing and UWW had restored its recognition.

The lifting of the suspension and the WFI’s reinstatement is viewed as a critical step in stabilizing the sport of wrestling in India. It ensures that Indian wrestlers can continue to compete in international events under the umbrella of a recognized and legitimate governing body.