IOA Forms Ad Hoc Committee to Govern Suspended WFI

In response to the suspension of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) by the Sports Ministry, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has established a three-member ad hoc committee to oversee the day-to-day operations of the WFI. The suspension was enforced due to the WFI’s failure to adhere to its constitutional provisions while making decisions.

Composition of the Ad Hoc Committee

• Chairman: Bhupinder Singh Bajwa (Wushu Association of India President)
• Member: M M Somaya (Hockey Olympian)
• Member: Manjusha Kanwar (Former International Shuttler)

Background of WFI Suspension

The Sports Ministry took action three days after the WFI elected new office bearers, including Sanjay Singh as president. The ministry accused the WFI of violating its own constitution and instructed the IOA to form an ad-hoc panel.

IOA’s Concerns and Decision

In a released statement, the IOA expressed concern over arbitrary decisions by the newly-elected WFI officials, violating constitutional provisions and principles of good governance. The IOA emphasized the importance of governance norms and appointed the ad hoc committee to ensure fair play, transparency, and accountability.

Responsibilities of the Ad Hoc Committee

The committee is tasked with overseeing various aspects of WFI’s operations, including athlete selection, international event participation, organizing sports activities, managing finances, handling the website, and other related responsibilities.

Olympic Preparations and Goals

Ad hoc committee chairman Bhupinder Singh Bajwa emphasized the significance of the Olympic year and outlined plans to conduct senior and junior championships, along with training camps, to enhance India’s chances of winning medals in the upcoming Paris Olympics.

History of Ad Hoc Committee Involvement

Bajwa, previously a member of the IOA’s ad hoc committee in April, is familiar with the responsibilities involved. The committee was initially formed to manage WFI affairs and conduct elections, which were eventually held on December 21.

Questions Related to Exams

Q: Why was the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) suspended by the Sports Ministry?

A: The WFI faced suspension for violating its own constitution and principles of good governance, leading to concerns raised by the Sports Ministry.

Q: What prompted the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to form an ad hoc committee for the WFI?

A: The IOA took action to address arbitrary decisions by the newly-elected WFI officials and ensure adherence to governance norms, transparency, and accountability.

Q: Who is leading the newly formed ad hoc committee for the WFI?

A: Bhupinder Singh Bajwa, the president of the Wushu Association of India, is heading the three-member ad hoc committee overseeing WFI affairs.

Q: What responsibilities does the ad hoc committee have regarding WFI operations?

A: The committee is tasked with overseeing athlete selection, international event participation, financial management, website handling, and other operational aspects of the WFI.