Boxing ad-hoc panel was necessary: PT Usha

NEW DELHI: Justifying her decision to appoint an ad-hoc committee for boxing - which has now been disbanded by the Delhi High Court following a stay order in the petition filed by the sport's national federation (BFI) - Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha said with the 2026 Asian Games fast approaching, the Ajay Singh-led body failed "to identify fresh talent, select promising boxers and implement structured training programmes to enhance the country's medal prospects".
Usha had constituted a five-member ad-hoc panel through an office order dated Feb 24 after the boxing federation failed to conduct its elections on schedule this year. A single judge bench of Justice Sachin Datta on Monday provided interim relief to the BFI by staying the appointment of the adhoc body while granting two weeks' time to the IOA to file its reply into the matter. The judge posted the matter for further hearing on March 27.
Usha's statement came in response to IOA vice-president Gagan Narang's letter on Feb 28, in which the London Olympics bronze-winning air rifle shooter accused her of issuing arbitrary orders without consulting the national Olympic committee's executive council (EC) members.
"There is no truth in your assertion that athletes are suffering due to this decision or any alleged arbitrary actions on my part," Usha stated, "The decision to appoint an ad-hoc committee was not arbitrary but a necessary step to restore order, ensure proper governance, and prioritise athlete development. The unfortunate reality is that BFI has failed in fulfilling its fundamental responsibilities, including conducting national championships in the last year."
Usha also denied allegations that she has been taking decisions unilaterally without convening the EC meetings.