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Thursday March 28, 2024

India may lose hosting rights of Asian Jr Wrestling

By Our Correspondent
July 11, 2018

LAHORE: The conduct of Asian Junior Wrestling Championships in India is doubtful to be held after Pakistan grapplers were not allowed by the India government for participation.

Reports received from the international wrestling federation stated that India could lose the hosting rights of Asian Junior Championships in New Delhi if the Pakistani grapplers are not allowed to compete in the event. The Asian Junior Championships is to begin in New Delhi from July 17.

The Indian wrestling authorities have not yet received clearance from its Ministry of Home Affairs to conduct the event due to ambiguity over participation of Pakistani grapplers.

In case Pakistan grippers are not given visas for participation in the event, the UWW (world body) may ban India and take away the event. It’s Pakistan’s right to compete at the event as the champions.

The Indian wrestling federation is in a fix to get various clearances but reports say some of the Indian given ‘officials’ do not understand the ‘seriousness’ of the issue.

“Usually the process begins two months from the event but we began it four months back. But a few officials do not understand that it is a serious matter. The United World Wrestling can take action against us. They can ban us, bar us from competing in Olympics,” said Indian wrestling official.

“It’s not a bilateral meet, it’s an Asian Championship. Pakistan can’t be denied the chance to compete. Pakistan is not at mercy of India to compete. Only after giving guarantee, which ensures participation of all countries, we are allotted tournaments,” he said.

He also informed that only a boys’ team from Pakistan will come for the competition, scheduled to be held here from July 17 to 23 at K D Jadhav stadium. So far, 17 countries, including powerhouses Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Japan and Korea have confirmed their participation the competitions.