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Sanjay Singh, President of the Wrestling Federation of India, reacted first to the suspension of the WFI by the Sports Ministry on Sunday, December 24. The decision comes after the panel led by Singh and backed by former WFI president Brij Bhushan assumed control of the Federation after the much-delayed elections took place in controversial circumstances.
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After the news broke, Sanjay Singh, the newly elected WFI president, reacted to the suspension and spoke at Ranchi Airport about how he hasn't received any official confirmation on the development. In a video posted by ANI, Singh said, "I was in the flight. I've not received any letter yet. First, let me see the letter, only then I will comment. I heard that some activity has been stopped."
Watch the video here:
Federation is being run from the premises controlled by former office bearers: Sports Ministry
The ministry accused the new WFI committee of showing ‘blatant disregard for the established legal and procedural norms’. Further, the government lashed out at the arrangement. The statement released by the Sports Ministry said, “The business of the Federation is being run from the premises controlled by former office bearers. Which is also alleged premises wherein sexual harassment of the players have been alleged and present the court is hearing the matter.”
“This announcement is hasty, without giving sufficient notice to wrestlers who are to take part in the said nationals and without following the provisions of the constitution of WFI,” the ministry noted.
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It added: “The actions smack of complete arbitrariness on the part of the President, which is against the settled principles of good governance and devoid of transparency and due process. Adherence to governance norms is vital for ensuring fair play, transparency and accountability. These are crucial to build trust among athletes, stakeholders, and the public,” the statement concluded.
