Guwahati: The Women’s National Boxing Championship has become a battleground amidst infighting within the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) ahead of its elections.
Five boxers from Assam and a coach have defied their state unit’s directive to participate in the tournament, which began on March 21.
Teams from Bihar and Madhya Pradesh have boycotted the event, while many office-bearers of several member state associations have stopped their boxers from competing.
Assam had initially registered nine boxers, including Tokyo Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain, before pulling out. However, the Assam Olympic Association intervened, sending a six-member team, including five boxers.
These boxers were not part of the original list but now have the opportunity to make it to the national camp. The top three boxers from each weight category will proceed to the national camp.
The pressure is not limited to Assam, as another Northeastern state’s boxers and officials were also forced to stay away due to the elections. The Boxing Federation of India has stepped in to cover the cost of travel and accommodation for these boxers.
Despite the controversy, the tournament has seen some exciting bouts. Reigning lightflyweight champion Anamika Hooda began her title defence by knocking out Sikkim’s Prava Gajneer in Round 2. Other notable winners include Devika Ghorpade of Maharashtra, Haryana’s Tamanna, Uttarakhand’s Shobha Kohli, and Haryana’s Priya.
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