Boxing Federation of India (BFI) President Ajay Singh on Wednesday assured that the federation will cover all expenses for players affected by state-level politics, ensuring they can compete in the National Championships without hindrance.
He also condemned state associations for blocking player entries into the Senior Nationals for political reasons.
“If any state federation is stopping their boxers or cancelling their tickets or arrangements, the Boxing Federation of India and I personally will pay for each one of those boxers to come and participate in the Nationals,” Singh declared. “We will provide them the tickets, the hotels, and whatever else is required. Helpline numbers (7003191553, 9050080068) will be available to them. Boxers can call this number, and we will make the arrangements for them,” Singh told the media in a press conference.
The upcoming Elite Women’s Senior National Boxing Championships, scheduled for March 21-27 in Greater Noida, have been overshadowed by internal politics within the BFI. With elections looming, the event has become a focal point of contention, particularly following the suspension of General Secretary Hemanta Kumar Kalita and Treasurer Digvijay Singh.
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The suspensions resulted from an investigation led by Justice Sudhir Kumar Jain, which found both officials guilty of corruption and abuse of power for personal gain. Singh, addressing the media, emphasized that these disciplinary actions were necessary to uphold the federation’s integrity.
Ajay Singh directly addressed concerns that some state federations were obstructing their boxers from participating in the Nationals. He specifically cited issues with the Assam team, alleging that Hemanta Kumar Kalita and the Assam Federation were responsible for preventing their attendance.
Singh refuted claims that the suspensions were politically motivated, asserting that they were based on the findings of the independent inquiry and aligned with the BFI constitution. He stressed his commitment to maintaining the federation’s credibility.
Highlighting his tenure’s achievements, Singh pointed to India’s rise in the global boxing arena, from 44th to 4th in world rankings. He noted India’s successful hosting of three world championships and two IBA Congresses. He also cited the significant financial support he and his company have provided, contributing over ₹20 crores to Indian boxing. Furthermore, he emphasized the record-breaking success at the Women’s World Championship in New Delhi, where India secured four gold medals.
“We have won a record number of medals in all forms of championships,” Singh stated. “In the last Women’s World Championship, India won four gold medals, which is something we have never done before.” He reiterated that his dedication to the sport is driven by a desire to advance Indian boxing, not personal gain.
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