The Indian Sports Ministry has officially lifted the suspension on the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) on March 11, 2025, reinstating it as the National Sports Federation (NSF) after over two years of turmoil. The decision comes amid ongoing controversies surrounding former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and the governance of the federation.
The WFI was initially suspended on December 24, 2023, following governance issues and procedural lapses under newly elected president Sanjay Singh, a close aide of Brij Bhushan. The move aimed to address concerns raised by protesting wrestlers and international bodies. However, with the reinstatement, Sanjay Singh now has full control over the federation.
With the suspension lifted, WFI can now resume organizing domestic tournaments, conducting national camps, and selecting teams for international competitions, such as the Asian Wrestling Championships. This comes as a relief for junior wrestlers who suffered due to the lack of competitions.
Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the former WFI president and a BJP leader, expressed gratitude to the government for reinstating the WFI. In a video statement, he blamed “conspirators” for attempting to destroy the federation, hinting at the wrestlers who protested against him. His close ally, Sanjay Singh, now leads the WFI, and his son, Karan Bhushan Singh, serves as its vice president.
The controversy dates back to January 2023, when top wrestlers, including Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Bajrang Punia, accused Brij Bhushan of sexual harassment. They staged protests at Jantar Mantar, demanding his resignation. Legal battles followed, but despite an FIR and an investigation, Brij Bhushan has not been convicted.
The decision to reinstate WFI has sparked mixed reactions. While supporters call it a victory for Indian wrestling, critics argue it ignores the wrestlers’ grievances and restores a leadership tainted by serious allegations.
