Objectivity in Question: Sanjay Singh Addresses WFI Presidency Doubts
- Posted on December 24, 2023
- Politics
- By Arijit Dutta
- 225 Views
The newly-elected Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) President, Sanjay Singh, faces scrutiny over his objectivity. Athletes like Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia protested, challenging his ties to the former President, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Singh defends his position amidst uproar while announcing upcoming national competitions in Uttar Pradesh.
Amidst
heightened turmoil within the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI),
newly-elected President Sanjay Singh addresses growing concerns regarding his
objectivity. Singh, a close associate of former WFI head Brij Bhushan Sharan
Singh, confronted allegations of being a "dummy candidate,"
vehemently denying these claims.
The upheaval within Indian wrestling ensued following Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik's decision to retire from the sport, marking an unsettling start to Singh's tenure. Subsequently, another Olympic champion, Bajrang Punia, returned his prestigious Padma Shri award in protest. He left it at Kartavya Path near the Prime Minister's residence in New Delhi, symbolizing dissent.
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In
response to the mounting unrest, Singh defended his relationship with Brij
Bhushan, asserting that his affiliation shouldn't undermine his credibility. He
refrained from delving into the political aspect, emphasizing athletes'
preparation over engaging in politics.
Singh’s
connection to Brij Bhushan is pivotal, given the latter's resignation as WFI
President amid allegations of sexual misconduct by wrestlers like Sakshi and
Vinesh Phogat. The controversy cast shadows over the wrestling community,
amplifying doubts about Singh's leadership.
The
new WFI President announced the forthcoming U15 and U20 national competitions
scheduled in Uttar Pradesh's Gonda, aiming to steer focus away from the ongoing
chaos. Singh's move signifies an attempt to channel energies positively amidst
the storm of uncertainty surrounding his presidency.