The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has issued a show-cause notice to Olympic bronze medallist Aman Sehrawat after the wrestler failed to meet the weight requirements at the recent World Wrestling Championships in Zagreb. Aman, considered a top medal prospect in the men’s 57kg freestyle category, was disqualified from competing after being found 1.7kg overweight.
WFI president Sanjay Singh confirmed the decision on Thursday, adding that the support staff accompanying Aman in Zagreb have also been served notices. “Aman and the support staff assisting him in Zagreb have been issued show-cause notices. They need to reply by September 29. We have to hear their side of the story before making a decision,” Singh was quoted as saying by Sportstar.
This marks the third time in the past year that an Indian wrestler has been barred from international competition due to weight issues, a growing concern for the federation and sports authorities. The incident follows similar weight-related disqualifications of Vinesh Phogat at the Paris Olympics and Neha Sangwan at the World Under-20 Championships.
Aman’s disqualification was particularly disappointing given the extensive resources being invested in overseas training camps. Singh expressed frustration over the situation, pointing to the financial implications. “The Minister (Mansukh Mandaviya) feels that unless we check this, it will be difficult to expect medals in the Olympics,” Singh said, highlighting the Government’s concern over repeated negligence.
In response, the WFI has decided to enforce stricter weight compliance protocols across all levels. One key move is the elimination of the two-kilogram relaxation previously allowed during selection trials. The new rule will come into effect starting with the under-23 trials scheduled in Lucknow and Delhi on October 4 and 5, respectively, ahead of the World U-23 Championships in Novi Sad, Serbia.
The federation hopes that tightening regulations will reinforce discipline among athletes and ensure India’s best talents remain eligible for key international events. With the Paris Olympics looming, the WFI is determined to avoid a repeat of such costly mistakes.
For Aman Sehrawat, the show-cause notice marks a critical moment in his career. Once viewed as one of India’s most promising freestyle wrestlers, he must now answer for a misstep that has cast doubt on his preparation and professionalism. The federation’s next steps will likely depend on the explanations provided by Aman and his team before the September 29 deadline.
