Wrestlers Wrestle for Approval: A Struggle to Compete

Top Indian wrestlers, including Sunil Kumar and Minakshi, approached Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya to seek approval to participate in the Ranking Series in Albania. Their participation is crucial as it impacts their seeding for future championships. Approval was delayed due to administrative issues between the ministry and WFI.

In a significant move, prominent Indian wrestlers, led by Asian champion Sunil Kumar and U-23 gold medallist Minakshi, congregated at Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya's residence to push for their participation in the upcoming Ranking Series in Tirana, Albania. The wrestlers seek to overcome bureaucratic delays hampering their training regime.

Despite the critical nature of their request, the Sports Ministry has delayed granting approval, citing the Wrestling Federation of India's tardiness in submitting requisite documents. This delay is affecting the athletes' ability to gain essential points needed for their seeding in major future tournaments, including the Senior Asian Championships in Amman.

The absence of timely governmental endorsement continues to mar the athletes' preparations. The wrestlers have already missed the first Ranking Series in Croatia due to similar bureaucratic challenges, highlighting a pressing need for resolution between the Ministry and the suspended Wrestling Federation of India.

(With inputs from agencies.)