Delhi High Court stays BFI directive; allows polls pending final verdict

The longstanding administrative tussle within Indian boxing takes new turn ahead of elections

- TRIDIB BAPARNASH

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday stayed the Boxing Federation of India's (BFI) directive that only elected members of its affiliated state units could represent their respective states in the upcoming elections.

Hearing a petition filed by the Delhi Amateur Boxing Association (DABA), Justice Mini Pushkarna ordered a stay on the BFI's 7 March circular until the next hearing.

"The operation of 7 March circular by the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) is stayed till the next date of hearing," the court stated.

The judge, however, clarified that the election process would proceed as scheduled, including the declaration of results, but the final outcome would remain subject to the court's decision on the plea.

"It is clarified that the election process shall continue dehors the effect and operation of the 7 March circular. Election results shall be declared, which shall be subject to the outcome of the present petition," the court said while adjourning the matter to August.

The elections are set to take place on 28 March.