Mumbai Mumbai. The government on Friday approved the Indian wrestling team to participate in the World Championship. All the 12 selected athletes gathered outside the residence of Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and sought his intervention. A day earlier, the WFI had withdrawn the country's entries from the prestigious tournament. The Indian women's team was invited to join the Indian team after Sakshi Malik's husband wrestler Satyawart Kadian approached the court against the federation's decision to hold trials for the Under-23 and Senior World Championships. The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) was forced to pull out all three Indian teams from the championship on Thursday. Kadian argued that since the WFI is suspended, it is in contempt of court by taking the decision.
The ministry has kept the WFI suspended and the IOA has refused to reintroduce the ad-hoc panel, leaving the future of the sport and the wrestlers in limbo. However, world governing body UWW lifted the suspension of WFI in February this year. Mandaviya told reporters, “A group of wrestlers met me and informed me about the issue and their concern. I directed that the court case will proceed in the court only, but the wrestlers should participate in the World Championships. They should get this opportunity.” Whatever and wherever I needed to say, I did.”
A group of wrestlers met the minister along with WFI president Sanjay Singh. The conversation lasted for about an hour. Sanjay Singh said, “We discussed the issue with the minister, who assured that if the federation is accused of contempt they will take responsibility for it and approved the team's participation. Tickets should be booked in advance. And the team will leave as per schedule on Sunday morning.” Asked whether the government has given assurance of lifting the suspension, Sanjay Singh said, “The ministry has said it will review it. It may take a month or more.” However, Mandaviya did not make any commitment and did not give any clear answer. He said, “The government's stand is clear, all the federations can work as per their wish, the government only helps them. Sports should be promoted in the country and our players should perform well at the national and international level.”
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