The interim committee that runs boxing said on Sunday that it would deliver the delayed Boxing Federation of India elections by the deadline of August 31 set by World Boxing, while also insisting that the BFI’s independence should not be undermined.
WB, the new IOC-backed body governing the sport, after reviewing the roadmap and deliberations held with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha during discussions in Lausanne, has recently extended the tenure of the interim committee. This decision came with a formal note of appreciation, acknowledging the committee’s effective functioning and its significant strides in restoring transparency and stability within India’s boxing administration.
In a statement issued a day after the IOA said it had named a three-member committee to dissect causes for the poll delay, BFI executive director and member of boxing’s interim panel Col. (retd) Arun Malik said: “At the same time, it is important to reaffirm that the autonomy of the national federation is governed by the framework laid down by the world body. While we respect the intent behind the IOA’s formation of a three-member fact-finding committee, the process under way is already transparent, accountable, and well-documented. All key action points and developments have been formally communicated to both the IOA and the (Union Sports) ministry, ensuring complete institutional clarity. With all information already in the public domain, there is little left to be uncovered.
“Our focus remains firmly on ensuring a smooth, lawful, and timely transition in the best interest of Indian boxing.”
Acting under the guidance of WB, the committee has already completed a majority of its administrative responsibilities. These include the smooth functioning and management of regular BFI operations — spanning official, financial, and legal matters. The committee has also ensured India’s continued participation in international tournaments, resumed national training camps, and facilitated preparations for upcoming major international competitions. Discussions on the roadmap for conducting the elections have been held with the global governing body, as the committee continues to steer Indian boxing toward stability and progress.
“The performances of Indian boxers over the past three months, since the interim committee took charge, have not only been applauded by the world body but also by top boxing nations across Asia,” Col Malik said.
