New Delhi: The dominance of former president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh still looms large over the Indian Wrestling Federation. Despite numerous controversies and allegations against him, Sanjay Singh, a close associate, has emerged victorious in the election for the president’s post.
It can be said that the reins of the wrestling federation are still in the hands of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, albeit indirectly. Sanjay Singh secured a decisive victory with 40 out of 47 votes, competing against Anita Sheoran, a Commonwealth Games gold medalist who had garnered support for her involvement in the movement against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh amid allegations of sexual harassment by women wrestlers.
Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh held the position of president for 12 consecutive years. Earlier this year, women wrestlers staged a protest against him, accusing him of sexual harassment. The Delhi Police is currently investigating these allegations, leading to his removal from the position. It was decided that neither he nor any of his family members would participate in the elections. Subsequently, Sanjay Singh, his close aide, was chosen as the candidate, achieving a significant victory.
Sanjay Singh, who previously served as the vice-president of the Uttar Pradesh Wrestling Association, has been entrusted with the responsibility of leading the Wrestling Federation. Notably, even the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Mohan Yadav, had to face defeat in the elections for the vice-president’s position. Apart from the president’s post, elections were held for four senior vice-presidents, four vice-presidents, a general secretary, a treasurer, and two joint secretaries. Additionally, five executive members were also elected.
Sanjay Singh had previously claimed widespread support from wrestling associations across various states. He asserted that those within the wrestling fraternity are aware of who has worked for the betterment of the Wrestling Federation. Therefore, they would consider this when casting their votes.
The wrestling federation elections commenced in July but faced delays due to legal issues. Ultimately, with the recent Supreme Court verdict, the path was cleared for the elections. The International Wrestling Federation had also suspended the organization temporarily. The recent Supreme Court decision brought clarity to the electoral process.
In conclusion, Sanjay Singh’s victory in the Indian Wrestling Federation elections marks a significant transition, signaling a new era in Indian wrestling leadership. The elections, marred by controversies and legal challenges, have concluded, providing an opportunity for a fresh start in the administration of the sport.