Nikhat Zareen Skips National Boxing Championships

Women’s National Boxing Championships

The Women’s National Boxing Championships commenced at the Shahid Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex, Greater Noida, with the absence of some of India’s biggest boxing stars.

World Champion Nikhat Zareen and Tokyo Olympics medallist Lovlina Borgohain both opted out of the competition, raising concerns about the state of Indian boxing.

Why Did Nikhat Zareen Miss the Nationals?

Nikhat Zareen, who has consistently been India’s top pugilist in recent years, decided to skip the event as her season is yet to begin.

However, her absence is not linked to the ongoing Boxing Federation of India (BFI) dispute, unlike Lovlina Borgohain, who was forced to withdraw due to federation conflicts.

Boxing Federation of India (BFI) Crisis

The event has been marred by an internal dispute within the Boxing Federation of India (BFI). The federation is currently witnessing a power struggle between BFI President Ajay Singh and his suspended Secretary Hemanta Kalita.

• Ajay Singh suspended Kalita and Treasurer Digvijay Singh, citing financial mismanagement.

• In retaliation, the Kalita-led Assam State Boxing Association blocked its boxers, including Lovlina Borgohain, from participating.

• Other state units such as Himachal Pradesh and West Bengal have also boycotted the event.

Impact on Women’s Boxing Championship

Despite the absence of Nikhat Zareen, the tournament saw impressive performances from some rising stars:

• Anamika Hooda (51kg) from Railways defended her title with a dominant win.

• Devika Ghorpade of Maharashtra secured a unanimous victory in the 48-51kg category.

• Haryana’s Tamanna delivered a knockout win in the second round.

• Uttarakhand’s Shobha Kohli edged out Punjab’s Ekta Saroj in a 4:1 split decision.

• Commonwealth Games medallists Nitu Ghangas and Jasmine Lamboria are expected to be the main attractions in the coming days.

Nikhat Zareen's Upcoming Season

Though Nikhat Zareen is not participating in the nationals, she remains a top contender for the Paris Olympics 2024. She has been focusing on international events and is expected to return to the ring in the upcoming World Championships and Olympic qualifiers.

Future of Indian Boxing

• The ongoing BFI controversy has raised concerns about governance in Indian boxing.

• The boycott by several states signals deeper issues in the administration of the sport.

• Despite these challenges, India’s young boxers are stepping up to prove their mettle.

With Nikhat Zareen missing from action, the tournament still promises high-intensity clashes. However, the political turmoil in the BFI casts a shadow over the future of Indian boxing. The situation will be crucial in determining India’s prospects for the 2024 Paris Olympics and beyond.