The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has dismissed allegations of bias against Haryana wrestlers after a massive turnout from the state at the ongoing National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh. However, the federation also admitted that doping remains a serious concern for Indian wrestling following the discovery of used syringes at the venue.
WFI president Sanjay Singh said nearly 80 per cent of the 1,400 wrestlers registered for the three-day competition are from Haryana, widely regarded as the powerhouse of Indian wrestling. According to him, such overwhelming participation proves that the federation is not discriminating against the state.
Ranking Tournament Holds Major Importance
The National Open Ranking Tournament is a crucial domestic competition that helps determine selection pathways for national camps and future international tournaments. It has also provided an opportunity for several experienced wrestlers to regain their place in the national setup.
Prominent names competing in the event include Deepak Punia, the 2019 World Championships silver medallist, and Anirudh Gulia, who won bronze at the 2023 Asian Championships.
The issue carries additional significance because earlier WFI policies limiting states to one team in National Championships had triggered criticism from Haryana wrestling bodies, who felt unfairly targeted despite the state’s deep talent pool.
Doping Continues To Trouble Indian Wrestling
While defending the federation’s stance on Haryana, Sanjay Singh acknowledged that Indian wrestling still faces a major doping challenge. Reports from the venue claimed several used syringes were found in the men’s washroom during the opening day of competition.
The WFI chief said the federation is working to create awareness and strengthen anti-doping measures but admitted that much more needs to be done to clean up the sport.
India has faced repeated embarrassment over doping violations in wrestling over the past few years, particularly in heavyweight categories. According to World Anti-Doping Agency reports released in late 2025, India ranked number one globally for doping violations for the third straight year.
Discussion about this post