Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) Mandatory process has been completed by United World Wrestling (UWW), the global governing body for the sport. As a condition of lifting the suspension of the WFI, the UWW had directed the federation to establish a Athletes Commission To resolve the grievances of the wrestlers.
election of seven members
In the elections for the Athletes’ Commission, a total of eight candidates contested the seven available seats. The following members were elected after the voting:
- Narsingh Pancham Yadav
- Sahil (Delhi)
- Smita AS (Kerala)
- Indian Bhaghei (Uttar Pradesh)
- Khushboo S.Pawar (Gujarat)
- Nikki (Haryana)
- Shweta Dubey (Bengal)
After this the newly elected members unanimously selected Narsingh Yadav In form of President of the Athletes Commission,
Narsingh Yadav’s journey
Narsingh Yadava former Commonwealth Games gold medalistsCame into limelight before the 2016 Olympic Games. Olympic medalist Sushil Kumar had requested for a trial match against Narsingh as Sushil could not participate in the qualification tournament due to injury.
While Sushil’s appeal was rejected by the Delhi High Court, thereby confirming Narsingh’s participation in the Rio Olympics, Narsingh failed two dope tests before the Games. The Sports Court banned him for four years, but National Anti Doping Agency (NADA) acquitted him saying that the positive test was part of a conspiracy. Narsingh’s ban ended in July 2020.
Importance of Athletes Commission
The formation of the Athletes Commission is an important step towards ensuring the welfare and representation of wrestlers in the decision-making processes of the WFI. It provides a platform for athletes to express their concerns and contribute to the development of sports in India.
About UWW and WFI
United World Wrestling (UWW)The international governing body for wrestling, headquartered in Corsier-sur-Vevey, Switzerland. It oversees wrestling competitions at the Olympics and World Championships.
Wrestling Federation of India (WFI)Based in New Delhi, regulates the sport in the country. It organizes national and international wrestling competitions, provides training and support to Indian wrestlers participating in major competitions such as the Olympic Games.
With the formation of the Athletes Commission and the election of Narsingh Yadav as its President, the WFI has taken an important step towards ensuring transparency, accountability and the overall development of wrestling in India.
