In a show of resilience, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) is set to organize the 2023 Senior National Wrestling Championship, featuring around 700 wrestlers from across the country, in Pune from January 29th to 31st. The event will cover Free Style, Greco Roman, and Women Wrestling categories, with representation from all affiliated state units, except Punjab and Odisha.
The national body faced suspension from the Sports Ministry on December 24, just days after holding elections. The suspension came in response to the WFI’s decision to host the 2023 age group nationals in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, violating its own constitution.
The Sports Ministry emphasized that the Nationals organized by WFI would not be recognized, raising questions about the legitimacy of the upcoming championship.
However, WFI President Sanjay Singh remains defiant, stating, “The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) is organizing its 2023 Senior National Wrestling Championship in Free Style, Greco Roman & Women Wrestling.”
“Around 700 wrestlers across the country are participating in this mega event. All affiliated state units of Wrestling Federation of India have entered its teams for participation in the event except Punjab & Odisha.”
Despite the ongoing controversy, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) intervened, forming a three-member panel to manage the day-to-day affairs of WFI. Led by Bhupendra Singh Bajwa, the ad-hoc body has taken steps to address the situation, announcing a separate senior national championship to be held in Jaipur from February 2-5.
