Indian Kabaddi Faces New Crisis: Players Barred from International Competitions
Indian kabaddi enthusiasts received a jarring blow as the International Kabaddi Federation (IKF) barred the nation’s players from participating in international events. T
he decision stems from the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India’s (AKFI) ongoing administrative turmoil, highlighting a significant setback for the sport’s growth in the country.
The heart of the issue lies in AKFI’s failure to establish a duly elected body to oversee its daily operations. Instead, the federation remains under the control of an administrator, with its governance matters entangled in a legal battle currently before the Delhi High Court. The next hearing is scheduled for Thursday, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the sport’s administration in India.
Despite AKFI conducting elections in December 2023, where Vibhor emerged as president and Jitendra Pran Singh as secretary general, the returning officer has withheld approval of the election results pending the court’s verdict. Consequently, the management of AKFI continues under the administrator’s control, creating a bureaucratic limbo.
IKF chief Vinod Kumar Tiwari, in a letter to Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha, expressed the federation’s concerns.
“It has come to our knowledge that the administrator of AKFI has conducted the elections to the AKFI on 24.12.2023 and one managing committee has already been elected, yet the management of the AKFI continues with the administrator.
This is a clear violation of the conditions for affiliation to the IKF. Therefore, it has been decided that the teams sent by the AKFI shall not be allowed to participate in the 1st Senior Men’s World Beach Kabaddi Championships,” Tiwari wrote.
Impact on Players and Fans
This ban strikes at the very core of Indian kabaddi, affecting not only the immediate prospects of the players but also the sport’s overall development and popularity.
Kabaddi, a traditional sport with deep roots in Indian culture, has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years, thanks in part to the Pro Kabaddi League’s success. However, the current administrative crisis threatens to derail this momentum.
For the players, the IKF’s decision is nothing short of devastating. Many had been preparing intensely for the upcoming international competitions, and the ban leaves them in a state of limbo.
“We have been working hard, aiming to bring glory to India. This ban is heartbreaking,” said one senior player, who wished to remain anonymous.
Fans, too, are disheartened. The fervor and excitement that typically surround international kabaddi events have given way to frustration and disappointment. “Kabaddi is more than just a sport for us; it’s a part of our identity. This ban is a huge setback,” lamented Rajesh Kumar, a longtime supporter.
The broader implications of this ban are profound. It underscores the urgent need for reform within AKFI and highlights the importance of transparent and accountable governance in sports federations.
As the court deliberates, the kabaddi community remains hopeful for a swift resolution that will allow Indian players to once again showcase their talents on the international stage.
In the meantime, the kabaddi fraternity must rally together, advocating for the necessary changes to ensure that such a situation does not arise again. The resilience and spirit that define kabaddi will be crucial in navigating this challenging period.
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