Bajrang Punia returns Padma Shri Award to PM Modi after Brij Bhushan's aide's election as WFI chief

Wrestling Federation of India dispute: Star wrestler Bajrang Punia has taken a bold step, announcing his decision to return the prestigious Padma Shri award in protest against the appointment of Sanjay Singh as the chief of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Punia expressed his objection to the selection of Singh, a close associate of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, as the WFI chief.

The move follows Sakshi Malik's resignation from wrestling to protest Sanjay Singh's election. Punia, a prominent figure in Indian wrestling, emphasised his protest by returning the Padma Shri, a recognition bestowed on him for his exceptional contributions to the sport.

• Bajrang Punia notified PM Modi of his Padma Shri return in a formal letter.
  Sanjay Singh, an associate of Brij Bhushan Singh, clinched the Wrestling Federation of India presidency.
  Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia spearheaded protests against previous WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

Sanjay Singh secured victory in the WFI elections, defeating former Commonwealth Games gold medallist Anita Sheoran. The contentious election has triggered discontent among top wrestlers, with Sakshi Malik expressing her intention to quit the sport.

Addressing the media, Punia stated, "I am returning my Padma Shri award to the Prime Minister. This tweet serves as my official statement regarding this action." The election outcome has raised concerns about the direction of Indian wrestling, with allegations of impropriety and dissatisfaction among athletes.

The WFI elections, originally scheduled for June, faced delays due to a Punjab and Haryana High Court order. The wrestling community had previously raised concerns about Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, accusing the former chief and BJP MP of sexual harassment, leading to a prolonged protest.