After months of delay attributed to legal challenges, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) election is set to take place on December 21. The revised schedule, issued by returning officer Justice (retd) MM Kumar, aims to complete the polling, counting, and result declaration in a single day. The election, originally planned for August 12, faced obstacles when the Punjab and Haryana high court intervened following a writ petition from the de-recognized Haryana federation. The Supreme Court lifted the stay on November 28, allowing the electoral process to resume.
Outgoing WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, facing sexual harassment allegations, remains influential within the federation, with his supporters filing nominations for all 15 posts. A competing group, supported by wrestlers who protested against Singh, is also vying for top positions. The elections are crucial for the UWW to lift the suspension on WFI, enabling Indian wrestlers to compete under the national flag. The delay has hindered domestic events, with the senior nationals set to be hosted in Jaipur from January 2-5.
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While Singh's faction holds majority support, there's speculation about potential compromises on key posts. The wrestling fraternity hopes for a smooth electoral process after repeated delays caused by legal challenges from barred state associations. The outcome will significantly impact India's representation in international wrestling events, particularly with an eye on the Paris Olympics.
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