Delhi High Court Urges Sports Ministry to Clarify Wrestling Federation of India's Status

The Delhi High Court has intervened in the ongoing saga surrounding the management of the suspended Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). In response to an application filed by prominent wrestlers Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Satyawart Kadian, the court has directed the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to provide clarity on several key issues.

At the heart of the matter is the dissolution of the ad-hoc committee appointed by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to oversee the WFI's affairs. The court observed that the Ministry's affidavit failed to address critical aspects, including the status of the WFI's suspension, the circumstances leading to the disbanding of the ad-hoc committee, and who currently holds authority over the federation.

The court has summoned the joint secretary of the Ministry to present a "clear stand" on these matters during the next hearing scheduled for April 10. Additionally, the IOA has been instructed to submit an affidavit detailing the circumstances surrounding the dissolution of the ad-hoc committee.

The wrestlers' application seeks the appointment of a one-man committee, preferably a retired Supreme Court or High Court judge, to assume control of the WFI's management. They also requested that the WFI's suspension remain in place until the main legal proceedings are resolved.

The High Court's intervention underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for transparency in the governance of sports federations. As the legal battle unfolds, the wrestling community awaits a definitive resolution to the ongoing turmoil within the WFI.