New Delhi: The sports ministry has expressed concerns over the extended delay in holding the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) elections, as the current executive committee’s tenure concluded on February 2 this year. The ministry has observed that the postponement has “created an administrative void in BFI, which is affecting the governance and development of boxing in the country”. In a letter addressed to Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha – a copy of which is with TOI – the ministry emphasised the necessity of establishing a properly organised national boxing federation, considering the broader welfare of the sport and its athletes. Currently, the BFI is managed by a six-member committee appointed by World Boxing, chaired by current president Ajay Singh, who seeks a third term. This committee, formed on April 7 for 90 days, was tasked with managing daily operations and addressing issues hindering boxing’s development. The initial term ended on July 7. The committee has received an extension until Aug 31. A media release indicated World Boxing’s support for the committee’s ‘Athletes First’ approach, allowing continued participation in international competitions. The BFI elections, initially set for February 2, were rescheduled to March 28 following Himachal Pradesh High Court’s directive. Since then, the elections have been postponed indefinitely. In its communication to IOA, the ministry stated: “BFI informed this ministry that the World Boxing vide letter dated 07.04.2025, has formed an interim committee for a period not exceeding 90 days. The 90-day term of the committee is about to end. The ministry requests IOA to devise a mechanism providing a suitable way forward, in consultation with World Boxing, to ensure that the elections are held at the earliest.” Responding to the ministry’s letter, Arun Malik, BFI’s executive director and committee member, informed TOI that new EC elections would be conducted by Aug 31 as directed by World Boxing.
