Itanagar: The Indian Weightlifting Federation’s (IWF) decision to exclude Sambo Lapung, a top-performing weightlifter from Arunachal Pradesh, from the 2025 Commonwealth Championship trials has triggered widespread outrage and allegations of regional discrimination.
Lapung, a three-time national gold medallist and record holder in the 96kg category, was overlooked despite consistently outperforming his peers at the national level.
The IWF’s decision to select Harshit Sehrawat, a weightlifter from Haryana who normally competes in the 102kg category, for the 94kg slot has drawn criticism. Sehrawat’s competition record is weaker than Lapung’s, who has lifted 334kg to win gold at the 2024 Nationals in Himachal Pradesh, while Sehrawat managed 327kg and placed fourth in a higher weight class.
Lapung’s omission has shocked the weightlifting community, with many questioning the transparency of the selection process. Attempts by Lapung and the Arunachal Weightlifting Association to appeal the exclusion were rejected, with the IWF stating that all slots were already filled.
The decision has sparked concerns about regional bias, with some observers questioning whether the presence of IWF President Sahdev Yadav and Sehrawat’s shared Uttar Pradesh roots played a role in the selection. Lapung’s case has become a flashpoint in the larger fight for fairness, equal opportunity, and regional inclusion in Indian sports.
Coaches and former lifters have condemned the decision, calling it a dangerous precedent and a blow to merit-based selection. Many are now calling for the Arunachal government to intervene and for the IWF to ensure accountability. Lapung’s dream of participating in the Commonwealth Championship has been put on hold, and he is seeking justice and transparency in the selection process.
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