Did WFI Official Justify Their Stance Against Vinesh Phogat?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Nirmala Boora faced eligibility issues at the national trials.
- Vinesh Phogat defended Boora on social media.
- The WFI clarified its rules regarding athlete affiliations.
- The issue highlights the relationship between state bodies and the national federation.
- Communication and governance in sports organizations are crucial.
New Delhi, Dec 7 (NationPress) The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has dismissed Vinesh Phogat's claims regarding the alleged unfair treatment of wrestler Nirmala Boora during the recent national trials. The federation clarified that Boora intended to compete under the Haryana Police banner, which is not recognized by the federation, raising questions about her eligibility to participate in a state championship under those conditions.
Vinesh, representing the Julana constituency in the Haryana Assembly, voiced his support for Nirmala through social media on Saturday, asserting that preventing her from competing in the national trials was unjust.
"Nirmala Boora is a highly esteemed and skilled athlete from Haryana. She faced significant unfairness during the National trials held in Haryana... Nirmala was not allowed to take part in the trials; no explanation was given, and no official communication was made," stated Vinesh.
In response to the backlash, a WFI official told IANS, "My inquiry about Nirmala Boora is straightforward: Did she compete at the district level? If not, how can we disregard the athletes who did and advanced to this stage after their accomplishments? Setting that aside, Nirmala now wishes to represent Haryana Police, an organization that lacks affiliation with the WFI. Hence, how can we permit her to compete in a state championship?"
The official further remarked that Vinesh is "unnecessarily" involving the federation in this matter, emphasizing that it is a concern for the state body to resolve. The national federation has requested the state body to review the situation and provide a report.
"Vinesh Phogat is dragging the WFI into this issue unnecessarily. This is a state matter for Haryana, not a WFI issue. Nonetheless, we have instructed the state body to investigate the situation and report back," the official added.