The ongoing disputes within the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) intensified as current president Ajay Singh accused suspended secretary Hemanta Kumar Kalita of obstructing Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain’s participation in the upcoming women’s senior national championships in Greater Noida. Despite these tensions, Singh assured his full support for the boxers competing in the tournament.

“Assam is discouraging players from taking part in the women’s Nationals. Lovlina has recorded a supportive video, yet officials have been informed that she was advised by Hemanta Kalita not to participate. Given her strong ties to Assam boxing, she is reconsidering her decision to compete,” Singh stated during an “emergency press conference” held in the city.

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Singh criticized state associations for hindering boxers’ entries into the senior nationals due to political issues, labeling such actions as detrimental to the sport. He promised that the BFI would cover all costs for players impacted by state-level politics, ensuring they can participate in the competition without obstacles.

“If any state federation prevents their boxers from attending or cancels their travel arrangements, the Boxing Federation of India and I will personally ensure that those boxers receive support to compete in the Nationals. We will provide tickets, accommodations, and other necessary assistance,” Singh declared to the media on Wednesday.

“A dedicated helpline (7003191553) will be set up for them. Boxers can call this number for assistance, and we will handle the arrangements,” he added.

The senior national championship is slated to take place in Greater Noida from March 20-27, while several state associations, at odds with the BFI ahead of the March 28 elections, have been accused of stifling boxer entries for the competition.

This event occurs amid the suspension of BFI General Secretary Hemanta Kumar Kalita and Treasurer Digvijay Singh, following a corruption inquiry that found both officials guilty of abusing their positions for personal gain. The investigation was conducted by former Delhi High Court judge Sudhir Kumar Jain.

“I must emphasize this, especially for my friends from Assam—there is an obstruction to their team attending the national championships. In my opinion, Kalita and the Federation in Assam bear responsibility for this. We cannot overlook the interests of the athletes. While political differences are inevitable, preventing athletes from competing in a national championship is a serious disservice to the sport that we must collectively oppose,” Singh asserted.

Responding to claims that the suspensions were politically driven, Singh reiterated that the decision adhered to the BFI Constitution.

“Based on the findings of that report, I have suspended the Secretary General and Treasurer from their positions. It is with great regret that such actions are necessary to uphold the integrity of the Federation I currently preside over,” he stated, adding that the BFI had forwarded the report to the Sports Authority of India (SAI) for further action, which will be determined in cooperation with them.