New Delhi: United World Wrestling (UWW), the world governing body for wrestling, has suspended the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for not conducting its elections on time. The suspension means that Indian wrestlers will not be able to compete at the upcoming World Championships, which will be held in Belgrade, Serbia from October 10-18, 2023. The Indian athletes can only compete as neutral athletes even at the Olympic-qualifying championship beginning September 16.
The WFI was supposed to hold its elections in December 2022, but the elections were postponed due to a legal challenge. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) appointed the ad-hoc panel on April 27 and the committee was supposed to hold the election within 45 days. Originally, the WFI had to hold elections on May 7, but were declared canceled by the Sports Ministry declaring the process to be null and void. UWW gave the WFI a deadline of August 15, 2023 to hold the elections, but the elections did not take place.
UWW has suspended the WFI for violating its statutes. The statutes of UWW require all member federations to hold their elections on time. The suspension of the WFI is a major setback for Indian wrestling. India is a traditional wrestling power and has produced many world champions.
The suspension of the WFI also raises questions about the future of wrestling in India. The WFI is the governing body for wrestling in India and is responsible for organizing tournaments, selecting wrestlers for international competitions, and providing financial support to wrestlers. With the WFI suspended, it is unclear who will take over these responsibilities.
The suspension of the WFI is also a blow to the wrestlers themselves. The World Championships are one of the most important events in the wrestling calendar and the suspension means that Indian wrestlers will not be able to compete for medals. This is a major disappointment for the wrestlers, who have been training hard for the championships.
The suspension of the WFI is a complex issue with no easy solutions. However, it is clear that the suspension will have a negative impact on wrestling in India. The WFI needs to take steps to address the concerns of UWW and hold its elections as soon as possible. Otherwise, the suspension could be extended or even permanent.