Olympic bronze-medallist Bajrang Punia has chosen to forego the World Championship trials in Patiala, signalling his intent to exclusively prepare for the upcoming Asian Games in Hangzhou. With the World Championship set to kick off in Belgrade on September 16, Punia's decision has stirred debate.
"He has submitted his fitness certificate as required by the Sports Authority of India and should leave for Kyrgyzstan shortly to train for the Asian Games," mentioned Gian Singh, a member of the IOA's ad-hoc committee for wrestling.
Earlier, Bajrang had expressed his desire to the Sports Ministry to bypass the World Championships trials, aiming instead to focus on his preparations for the continental tournament beginning September 23. Following his request, the ministry sought a fitness certificate which was subsequently provided by the wrestler and approved by the Mission Olympic Cell (MOC).
For the next five weeks, Punia will undergo intensive training in Kyrgyzstan, supported by his personal team comprising a coach, strength & conditioning specialist, physiotherapist, and a practice partner.
In a twist, Bajrang was granted exemption from participating in the Asian Games trials held in New Delhi last month, a move he justified citing a lack of optimal fitness due to his prolonged protest at Jantar Mantar. Despite his absence, he was granted a direct spot in the Asian Games, overshadowing Vishal Kaliraman who had clinched top honors in the 65kg category trials.
This perceived favoritism towards Punia did not sit well with local khaps, especially given their support for him during his demonstration against the departing Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The exemption and direct entry sparked heated debates among several khaps.
Bajrang, understanding the depth of the controversy, hinted at a potential withdrawal from the Asian Games. "All those khap panchayats, all those Chaudhury organisation members who joined in the protest at Jantar Mantar, gather them together. Whatever command they give, I am ready to obey that," declared the Tokyo bronze-medallist last Thursday.
The upcoming Khap Mahapanchayat on September 10 is now being seen as a direct face-off between Punia and Vishal Kaliraman, bringing the simmering tension to a boiling point.
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(With inputs from PTI, powered by AI)
