Government lifts Wrestling Federation of India suspension; Brij Bhushan aide Sanjay Singh to have complete control

By | March 11, 2025

Government Lifts WFI Suspension, Restores Recognition

The sports ministry lifted the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) suspension on Tuesday. This decision restores WFI’s recognition and grants full control to Sanjay Singh, a close aide of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the BJP MP accused of sexually harassing women athletes.

Background of the Suspension

On December 24, 2023, the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports suspended WFI. Governance concerns and leadership controversies led to this action. The ministry then directed the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to form an ad-hoc committee. This committee managed daily operations during the suspension.

The suspension followed protests from top wrestlers like Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, and Sakshi Malik. They demanded action against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh for alleged misconduct. The issue gained nationwide attention. Some wrestlers even threatened to return their Olympic and international medals.

Government’s Decision to Revoke the Suspension

A government order confirmed the decision after reviewing the Spot Verification Committee’s findings. The ministry found WFI had met compliance measures. Officials stated that lifting the suspension was in the best interest of Indian sports and athletes.

“Based on the Spot Verification Committee’s findings and WFI’s compliance steps, the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports revokes the WFI suspension issued on 24.12.2023,” the statement read. “The Ministry has reinstated WFI as the National Sports Federation (NSF) for wrestling, effective immediately.”

Impact on Indian Wrestling

With WFI reinstated, Sanjay Singh now controls the federation’s operations. His close ties with Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh raise concerns. Many believe WFI needs reforms to ensure fair governance.

The decision allows Indian wrestlers to compete in national and international tournaments. This includes events like the Paris 2024 Olympics and the World Wrestling Championships.

Future of WFI and Indian Wrestling

The next few months will be crucial for Indian wrestling. The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports will closely monitor WFI’s governance. Wrestlers and stakeholders expect fair management under its new leadership.

With Indian wrestling at a turning point, all eyes are on Sanjay Singh. His decisions will shape the future of WFI.