WFI President Sanjay Singh to seek legal advice amidst suspension controversy

• Sanjay Singh, WFI president, plans to engage in talks with the government and explore legal options in response to the federation's suspension
•  Singh contests the label of "suspended president," asserting his elected status following the December 21 elections
• Notable wrestlers, including Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, and Vinesh Phogat, express discontent through significant gestures

Sanjay Singh, the president of the recently elected Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), which has faced suspension from the Union sports ministry, has announced his intention to initiate talks with the government. If discussions prove unsuccessful, Singh stated that he would seek legal advice.

Disputing claims of being the suspended WFI president, Singh affirmed his elected status, emphasizing his commitment to the role. The controversy arose after the federation elections on December 21, where Singh's panel secured 13 of the 15 available seats, leading to the ministry's suspension decision.

In response to the suspension, Singh expressed his disagreement, asserting that referring to him as the "suspended president" is inaccurate. He plans to explore diplomatic solutions through talks with the government, with legal action as a potential recourse.

Meanwhile, the wrestling community faces internal strife, as Rio Olympics bronze medallist Sakshi Malik and Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist Bajrang Punia have made significant gestures in protest, with Malik announcing her retirement and Punia leaving his Padma Shri award at Kartavya Path in Delhi. Star wrestler Vinesh Phogat also decided to return her Khel Ratna and Arjuna awards, citing the struggle for justice within the wrestling fraternity.