Boxing Fraternity Unites to Address Concerns Over BFI Leadership

Support for Pramod Kumar and Concerns Over BFI

In New Delhi, a coalition of Olympians, Arjuna Awardees, Dronacharya Awardees, distinguished coaches, and former international boxers convened to express their support for Pramod Kumar. They raised significant concerns regarding the leadership and operational direction of the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) under President Ajay Singh.

The gathering took place at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, where various sports personalities shared their insights with the media.

Prominent figures such as Rajkumar Sangwan, SR Singh, Anup Singh, Jaypal Singh, and Manoj Kumar were among those who addressed the press. The event concluded with remarks from Pramod Kumar, the Secretary General of BFI, who articulated his vision for the future of boxing in India.

During the press conference, Pramod Kumar outlined the administrative hurdles he has encountered in his role, his commitment to grassroots boxing, and the necessity for athletes and seasoned professionals to have a significant voice in the sport's governance. He emphasized that his actions are motivated by the welfare of boxers rather than personal gain.

Pramod stated, "Having been a player myself, I will always advocate for the athletes. My interests are aligned with the future of Indian boxing."

He expressed frustration over the lack of communication and access to the BFI President, noting that despite numerous emails and requests for meetings, he has not received satisfactory responses to his concerns. He also highlighted the issue of insufficient sponsorship for boxing events, while acknowledging the support from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the government in aiding athletes and organizing competitions.

Pramod Kumar's dedication to grassroots initiatives was evident as he discussed plans to introduce under-12 boxing in Uttar Pradesh and the registration of young boxers. Drawing from his past experience in athletics, he mentioned his role in identifying talent like Neeraj Chopra at an early age, underscoring the importance of early talent recognition and structured opportunities.

He remarked, "If we neglect grassroots development and fail to organize championships, how can boxing progress? Without the foundational talent, we cannot produce champions."

Despite facing financial and organizational obstacles, Pramod Kumar has worked to enhance opportunities for boxers in Uttar Pradesh, reportedly investing around Rs 21-22 lakh from his own funds into boxing activities and competitions. He credited the dedication of athletes, along with support from SAI and the government, for sustaining competitive boxing.

The boxing community called for a comprehensive, measurable, and time-sensitive development strategy that encompasses grassroots initiatives, district and state competitions, national championships, talent scouting, coaching, sports science, and international preparation. They emphasized the need for regular national championships that are well-organized and planned in advance, particularly for Sub-Junior and Junior boxers. The BFI should also publish an annual competition calendar and ensure the transparent appointment of referees, judges, and other officials based on their qualifications and experience.

Furthermore, the boxing fraternity demanded clear, published, and consistent selection criteria for national camps and international events. The process for appointing national coaches and engaging foreign coaches should be transparent and prioritize the best interests of Indian boxing. An effective accountability and grievance-redressal mechanism is essential to protect deserving athletes and maintain trust in selection processes.

The gathering also highlighted the importance of recognizing Indian coaches, many of whom have produced world champions and received prestigious awards. Their expertise should be central to national camps, talent development programs, and international assignments, with foreign coaches serving to complement rather than overshadow Indian talent. Opportunities for Indian coaches to participate in international coaching commissions and seminars should also be prioritized.

The BFI is urged to implement ongoing professional development programs for coaches, referees, judges, and other officials, including regular seminars and workshops on international rules, modern training techniques, injury prevention, athlete welfare, and performance analysis.

The boxing fraternity acknowledged the contributions of senior figures such as Brig. D. N. Devine Jones, Ashok Mattoo, A. P. G. D. Adajania, Rajesh Bhandari, and Brig. Muralidharan, along with other coaches and administrators. They emphasized the need for meaningful consultations with experienced coaches, awardees, former champions, and senior administrators in policy and development planning.

A significant concern raised was the lack of unity within the boxing community. Pramod acknowledged that divisions among associations have weakened collective efforts and urged stakeholders to voice their concerns when decisions negatively impact the sport.

He stated, "Unity is lacking in our association, and we must address this. Coaches, administrators, and everyone involved in the sport need to come forward when something is amiss. If we aim to improve the game, we must stand united."

The boxing fraternity stressed that the BFI President must work to unite stakeholders, foster trust, and resolve conflicts through dialogue and collaborative decision-making. State associations, coaches, former champions, and senior sports figures should be regarded as partners. The Federation must uphold a transparent, democratic, and professional administration in line with its constitution and applicable regulations, ensuring accountability in competitions, team selections, appointments, resource management, and development programs. Concerns raised by members should be addressed impartially, with corrective actions taken where necessary.

The boxing community also called for a fair consideration of the No-Confidence Motion against Ajay Singh at the upcoming Special General House Meeting scheduled for October 28, 2026, in New Delhi, ensuring that all authorized members can participate and express their opinions freely, without intimidation.

Pramod highlighted the potential for Indian boxing to enhance its international medal tally through meaningful reforms and collective support.

He remarked, "We still have the potential to secure many more medals. By reforming the system and garnering support from all, we can create better opportunities for our boxers and elevate Indian boxing's success on the global stage."

The boxing fraternity appealed to the Prime Minister of India and the Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports to take note of the issues raised. They urged the Ministry, the Indian Olympic Association, and World Boxing to facilitate an impartial review, support transparent governance, and implement necessary corrective measures.

The fraternity maintained that Indian boxing requires an inclusive approach, a clear development roadmap, regular competitions, fair selection processes, respected coaches, and accountable leadership. They opposed favoritism, arbitrary practices, and any actions that undermine transparency, fairness, or the legitimate interests of athletes and member associations.

The backing received by Pramod from Olympians, Arjuna Awardees, Dronacharya Awardees, esteemed coaches, former international boxers, and senior sports figures reflects a collective commitment to fortifying Indian boxing. The boxing fraternity called for a system that listens to athletes, values the expertise of coaches and sports administrators, and prioritizes grassroots development.