New Delhi: In a dramatic flip of occasions, a number of younger wrestlers on Wednesday staged demonstrations and protests within the coronary heart of the nationwide capital, expressing their discontent and frustration towards their seniors – the acclaimed trio of Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat – for allegedly ruining the game. The protesters, shouting slogans and holding placards, pointed fingers on the veteran grapplers, accusing them of disrupting wrestling actions and jeopardizing the goals of aspiring athletes.
Veteran Wrestlers Accused Of Halting Progress
According to statements obtained by information company ANI, one of many protesters claimed that the veteran wrestlers sought to affect the federation in line with their preferences. The dispute allegedly stemmed from dissatisfaction with the election outcomes, as Brij Bhushan Singh’s household had pledged to not contest, but a female and male candidate competed. The protesters accused Bajrang, Sakshi, and Vinesh of demanding re-election, contending that the declared winner was an ally of Brij Bhushan Singh. The younger wrestlers lamented the impression on their coaching routines and pleaded for a swift decision to renew the video games.
Sakshi Malik Counters Accusations
However, in response to the allegations, Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik held a press convention, vehemently denying any interference with the newly elected federation, besides for his or her objection to President Sanjay Singh. Malik asserted that the protest was orchestrated to serve the agenda of Brij Bhushan Singh, accusing him of operating a propaganda marketing campaign towards her and concentrating on her household. Despite her retirement, Malik urged the federal government to make sure the protection of wrestlers and emphasised the necessity for a good and inclusive federation.
Sakshi’s Plea For Women In Wrestling Federation
Sakshi Malik, expressing concern for the way forward for girls wrestlers, urged the ad-hoc committee to incorporate girls in administrative roles. While she clarified her private reluctance to step into administration, Malik emphasised the optimistic impression of girls leaders for feminine athletes to specific themselves freely.
Ad-Hoc Committee Takes Charge: Announces National Coaching Camp, Championships
In a decisive transfer, the ad-hoc committee for the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) introduced plans to host the National Coaching Camp for Senior Wrestlers, gearing up for the Asian Olympics qualifying and World qualifying tournaments. The Senior National Championships, scheduled for February 2-5 in Jaipur, will function competitions throughout senior freestyle, Greco-Roman, and ladies’s classes, offering a sturdy platform for wrestlers to showcase their skills.
Paris 2024 Olympics: NCC Initiates Rigorous Preparation
The National Coaching Camp (NCC), set to start on February 9, 2024, will concentrate on rigorous coaching for the upcoming Olympic qualifying tournaments. With an eye fixed on the Paris 2024 Olympics, the NCC goals to arrange athletes for the Asian Qualification Tournament in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (April 19-21, 2024), the World Qualification Tournament in Istanbul, Turkey (May 9-12, 2024), and the Senior Asian Championships in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (April 11-16, 2024).
Suspension, Restructuring: Union Sports Ministry Takes Control
In response to the turmoil, the Union Sports Ministry suspended the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and its office-bearers, together with newly-elected President Sanjay Singh. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has been directed to type an ad-hoc committee to handle and management the affairs of the WFI, ushering in a brand new period in Indian wrestling governance.
