Wrestlers Urge Sports Minister Mandaviya for Assistance After World Championships Withdrawal

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Twelve wrestlers, chosen for the World Championships, are currently outside Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya's residence. They seek his help after India's teams were withdrawn from the event.

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) had to pull out after Satyawart Kadian, Sakshi Malik's husband, challenged the decision to hold trials for the U23 and senior Worlds, citing contempt of court.

The WFI remains suspended by the ministry, and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has not reinstated the ad-hoc panel, leaving wrestlers uncertain about their future. "It takes 10-12 years to qualify for the World Championships. Now this opportunity is being taken away from us," said Mansha Bhanwala, who qualified in the women's 65kg category.

Wrestlers' Frustration and Determination

Mansha expressed frustration over the situation, questioning why their careers are being affected by others' protests. She mentioned that junior wrestlers don't need support from those protesting. "If we are not sent for the World Championships, we will begin a protest of our own," she stated. This period should be focused on training and managing weight, but instead, they are left waiting.

Manisha, a two-time bronze medalist at the Asian Championships, added that the Federation conducted trials to support them. She was joined by fellow women wrestlers Mansi Ahlawat (59kg), Kirti (55kg), and Bipasha (72kg). Mansi won gold in Almaty and a bronze at last year's UWW Ranking Series event in Tunis.

Men's Freestyle and Greco-Roman Wrestlers

Four men's freestyle wrestlers—Udit (61kg), Manish Goswami (70kg), Parvinder Singh (79kg), and Sandeep Mann (92kg)—along with four Greco-Roman wrestlers—Sanjeev (55kg), Chetan (63kg), Ankit Gulia (72kg), and Rohit Dahiya (82kg)—also joined the protest outside the minister's residence. They traveled from Haryana to express their concerns.

Udit highlighted their readiness for travel with visas and tickets in hand. "We have a flight to catch on Sunday morning at 4 am," he said. Instead of conserving energy and training, they find themselves protesting on the road.

Legal Challenges and Administrative Hurdles

The wrestlers initially approached the court but were informed that their petition couldn't be heard immediately. They then moved to meet the Sports Minister but faced difficulties due to lack of an appointment. "We have not been able to meet him yet," shared one wrestler.

The WFI cited government interference in its autonomy when informing UWW about withdrawing entries. The senior World Championship in 12 non-Olympic categories is set for October 28 in Tirana, Albania. The WFI's recent selection trials for U23 and World Championships were contested as contempt of court by wrestlers like Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Satyawart Kadian.

The situation remains unresolved as athletes await intervention to secure their participation in the prestigious event. Their dedication to representing India on an international stage underscores their determination amidst administrative challenges.