The Indian wrestling team’s participation in the upcoming World Championships has been cleared by the Union Sports Ministry, following a significant intervention by Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. This decision comes after the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) had initially withdrawn the entries due to ongoing governance disputes.
Background
The WFI was forced to pull out all three Indian teams from the championships after wrestler Satyawart Kadian, husband of Sakshi Malik, approached the court against the federation’s decision to conduct trials for the U23 and senior Worlds. Kadian contended that since the WFI is suspended, it was committing contempt of court by taking decisions.
Sports Ministry’s Intervention
A group of 12 selected wrestlers assembled outside the residence of Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and sought his intervention. Mandaviya assured the wrestlers that the court matter would continue in court, but they must compete in the World Championships. He emphasized that sports should grow in the country and that the players should perform their best at both national and international levels.
The Sports Ministry has officially cleared the participation of Indian wrestlers in the World Championships, providing a significant boost for the 12 athletes involved.#Wrestling #WorldChampionships @Media_SAI pic.twitter.com/gq676J6n6W
— DD News (@DDNewslive) October 26, 2024
WFI’s Response
WFI President Sanjay Singh confirmed that the wrestlers would participate in the elite event following the minister’s assurance. He stated that the Sports Ministry would take responsibility if a contempt charge is leveled on the federation. The team will depart as scheduled for the World Championships in Tirana, Albania.
Wrestlers’ Reaction
The wrestlers expressed relief and gratitude for the minister’s support. They highlighted the importance of the World Championships as a platform to showcase their skills and compete against top wrestlers from around the globe.
