At an informal get-together here on Wednesday, representatives of 12 prominent State units belonging to different factions of the Indian Boxing Federation took the first step towards resolving the issues that resulted in the suspension of the national federation by the International Boxing Association (AIBA).
The IBF, which was suspended by the AIBA in December 2012 because of alleged manipulation in its elections and the Indian Olympic Association’s suspension by the International Olympic Committee, had been going through a tough time due to various factors.
Apart from the ignominy of Indian boxers not being allowed to participate in international competitions under the National flag, the IBF, which has also been suspended by the Union Sports Ministry, is suffering from factionalism too.
Besides, the Indian team sponsor — Monnet — has also put on hold the funding to the IBF due to its suspended status.
In order to put IBF’s regular activities, including the conduct of the National championships, back on track, representatives of the State units agreed that three-fourths of the members would entrust the Bengal Amateur Boxing Federation president, Asit Banerjee, with the task of calling the Special General Meeting.
The SGM would follow the appropriate procedures according to the IBF Constitution, and form an ad hoc committee to decide on the conduct of fresh elections and National championships.
It may be recalled that the AIBA does not recognise the present IBF office-bearers, including President Abhishek Matoria and Secretary General Rajesh Bhandari, and has been insisting on holding fresh elections. The apex body also wants the IBF to adopt certain amendments to its constitution and bring it in line with that of the AIBA.
