Indian boxing looks for way past the administrative mess

Boxing's inclusion for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics has come after years of turmoil and uncertainty at the international level.

- Avishek Roy

GREATER NOIDA: However, despite the relief, Indian boxers are left to lament the looming administrative crisis at home.

The infighting within the Boxing Federation of India ahead of a highly-charged BFI elections has taken a toll. Some states have refused to send teams for the women's nationals saying the event, which got postponed twice, is being held at a very short notice. Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, West Bengal have not sent teams while a few states have put together second-string sides. There were letters circulating about the cancellation of the competition just days before the event.

A BFI official said they have been getting calls from some states and boxers who wanted to compete but were being dissuaded by their respective associations.

Olympic medallist Vijender Singh, who came as a chief guest on the opening day, said boxers should not be dragged into federation politics. "Some people have tried to create confusion. Boxers should not be dragged into politics. I know how much the sport and boxers suffer because of all this. They need competitions otherwise how will they come up? I am hoping that this situation is quickly resolved," Vijender said.