Boxer Manoj Kumar urges PM Narendra Modi to save Boxing Federation of India

Boxer Manoj Kumar urges PM Narendra Modi to save Boxing Federation of India
BFI

Olympian and Commonwealth Games gold medalist in boxing, Manoj Kumar has urged the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi to prevent the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) from being de-recognized by the Sports Ministry due to the federation not adhering to the National Sports Code. Manoj did so by writing a passionate letter addressed to the PM.

In his letter, the 34-year-old stated that the BFI was asked by the Delhi High Court to conduct elections and to continue as a federation in order to enjoy privileges that have been given to it by the Government. However, he alleged that the BFI was on purpose not adhering to the High Court’s orders. He also pointed out various other instances of knowing incompetence by the BFI which has led to the risk of being de-recognized.

‘There will be grave consequences for boxers and for India’

Manoj Kumar

Talking about the letter, according to ANI, Manoj Kumar said, “The notification for AGM and elections was sent out to all the BFI units and the election process had also begun, with a Returning Officer taking charge of the proceedings. But when BFI president Ajay Singh saw that a strong candidate in the form of Ashish Shelar had filed his nomination to contest for the president, he panicked and postponed the elections.”

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“This arbitrary decision to postpone the elections will have grave consequences for us boxers as well as for India, with the international body even likely to impose severe sanctions against the BFI, if not to suspend it. If we could hold elections in Bihar and in Hyderabad if other sports federations can have elections despite the COVID, why couldn’t we?” he added.

Manoj went on to accuse the BFI President Ajay Singh of various other fraudulent acts and misconduct. He also claimed that he was threatened to not expose the injustices in the federation lest he ‘pays a huge price’. A statement on the allegations by Manoj Kumar, from the BFI is awaited at the moment.

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