Narsingh Yadav Elected Chairman of WFI Athletes Commission

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has completed the process mandated by the United World Wrestling (UWW), the global governing body for the sport. As a condition for lifting the suspension of WFI, UWW had instructed the federation to establish an Athletes Commission to address the grievances of wrestlers.

Election of Seven Members

In the election for the Athletes Commission, a total of eight candidates contested for the seven available seats. After voting, the following members were elected:

• Narsingh Pancham Yadav
• Sahil (Delhi)
• Smita A S (Kerala)
• Bhartiya Bhaghei (Uttar Pradesh)
• Khushboo S Pawar (Gujarat)
• Nikki (Haryana)
• Shweta Dubey (Bengal)

Subsequently, the newly elected members unanimously chose Narsingh Yadav as the Chairman of the Athletes Commission.

Narsingh Yadav’s Journey

Narsingh Yadav, a former Commonwealth Games gold medalist, came into the limelight before the 2016 Olympic Games. Olympic medalist Sushil Kumar had requested a trial match against Narsingh, as Sushil could not participate in the qualification tournament due to injury.

While Sushil’s appeal was rejected by the Delhi High Court, confirming Narsingh’s participation in the Rio Olympics, Narsingh failed two dope tests before the Games. The Court of Sports banned him for four years, but the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) cleared him, stating that the positive test was part of a conspiracy. Narsingh’s ban ended in July 2020.

Significance of the Athletes Commission

The formation of the Athletes Commission is a crucial step towards ensuring the welfare and representation of wrestlers in the decision-making processes of the WFI. It provides a platform for athletes to voice their concerns and contribute to the development of the sport in India.

About UWW and WFI

The United World Wrestling (UWW), headquartered in Corsier-sur-Vevey, Switzerland, is the international governing body for wrestling. It oversees wrestling competitions at the Olympics and World Championships.

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), based in New Delhi, governs the sport in the country. It organizes national and international wrestling events, provides training and support to Indian wrestlers participating in major competitions like the Olympic Games.

With the formation of the Athletes Commission and the election of Narsingh Yadav as its Chairman, the WFI has taken a significant step towards ensuring transparency, accountability, and the overall growth of wrestling in India.