BFI Provides Assistance to Boxers Encountering Challenges at Nationals

New Delhi, March 19 (NationPress) Criticizing state associations for obstructing player participation in the Senior Nationals due to political motives, the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) President Ajay Singh remarked that such behavior is a significant disservice to the sport.

He pledged that the BFI will cover all costs for players impacted by state-level politics, ensuring they can compete in the National Championships without any obstacles.

“If any state federation is hindering their boxers or canceling their tickets or arrangements, the Boxing Federation of India and I personally will finance every one of those boxers to attend the Nationals. We will arrange for their tickets, accommodations, and any other necessities. Helpline numbers will be accessible to them. Boxers can reach out to this number, and we will handle their arrangements,” Singh informed the press during a conference on Wednesday.

As the BFI elections draw near, the Elite Women’s Senior National Boxing Championships, scheduled for March 21-27 in Greater Noida, has become embroiled in federation politics. This event takes place against the backdrop of the suspension of BFI General Secretary Hemanta Kumar Kalita and Treasurer Digvijay Singh, following an investigation into corruption and abuse of power. The investigation, conducted by Justice Sudhir Kumar Jain, found both officials guilty of misusing their roles for personal benefits, prompting Singh to initiate disciplinary measures.

“I must emphasize this, particularly for my friends from Assam who are here—their team is being obstructed from participating in the national championships. In my perspective, Mr. Kalita and the Federation in Assam are accountable for this interference.

“We cannot disregard the interests of the athletes themselves. Politics is one matter—everyone has the right to run for elections and express political differences—but preventing athletes from competing in a national championship is a tremendous disservice to the sport. This is something we must all oppose,” Singh stated.

Singh dismissed claims that the suspensions were politically influenced, asserting that the decision was made in accordance with the BFI Constitution. “Based on that report, I have suspended the Secretary General and the Treasurer from their current duties, and it is with great regret that we must take these actions to uphold or restore the credibility of the Federation that I currently lead,” he remarked.

Singh also highlighted the achievements of his tenure, noting that under his leadership, India has hosted three world championships and two IBA Congresses, improving the country’s boxing ranking from 44th to 4th globally. He also mentioned the significant increase in funding for Indian boxing, revealing that he and his company have contributed over 20 crores rupees to the sport. Furthermore, he emphasized that all 54 international and domestic tournaments held during his tenure have met the highest standards of professionalism, reinforcing India’s status as a premier destination for global boxing events.

He pointed to India’s exceptional performance in the Women’s World Championship held in New Delhi, where the country secured four gold medals. “We have achieved a record number of medals across all types of championships. In the last Women’s World Championship, India won four gold medals, which is something we have never accomplished before,” he stated.