Sanjay Singh 'Bablu', who is believed to be a close aide of former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, has become the new chief of India's apex wrestling governing body. Singh has beaten wrestler Anita Sheoran 40-7 in today's (21 December) election, which was contested in Delhi's Indian Olympic Association (IOA) headquarters.
Who Is Sanjay Singh ‘Bablu’?
Hailing from the Jhhansi village in Uttar Pradesh's Chandauli, Sanjay Singh, also known as ‘Bablu’ in the wrestling circuit, was a part of WFI’s last executive committee as well, serving as the joint secretary since 2019.
Speaking to The Quint, the presidential candidate said “I have been associated with the WFI for 12 years. I first joined the federation as an executive member, by winning elections in 2011. Eight years later, I became the joint secretary.”
Born into a business family, Sanjay further informed that his father, Nand Lal Singh, used to organise wrestling bouts at his village, which got him interested in the sport. Prior to joining the national federation, he too was associated with local wrestling competitions.
What Was the Dispute With Sanjay Singh’s Nomination?
Singh's candidature was met with scrutiny, owing to his association with Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The previous chief – against whom allegations of sexual harassment have been levied by female grapplers, and a chargesheet has been filed by the Delhi Police – is not contesting elections himself, having already served his maximum tenure of 12 years as the head of a national sports federation.
Sanjay Singh 'Bablu' is believed to be a close aide of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
(Photo: Facebook/Sanjay Singh bablu)
Amid wrestlers questioning his candidature, both Sanjay and Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh have claimed Supreme Court's orders were followed during the elections.
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