Five Assam boxers compete despite state association withdrawal

Five boxers from Assam have decided to participate in the Women's National Boxing Championships despite guidance from their state association to withdraw. The Assam Olympic Association has stepped in to send a six-member team, which includes five boxers who are not part of the original nine that were registered. The event started on Friday, but several teams, including those from Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, chose to boycott it due to ongoing conflicts within the Boxing Federation of India (BFI). The BFI is experiencing internal struggles, especially with upcoming elections, prompting some state associations to prevent their athletes from competing. Assam's directive forced well-known boxers, such as Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain, to skip the event. However, Assam coach Diganta Nath expressed concern for the athletes' futures, stating that the boxers should not miss out on opportunities. The five boxers who are competing were not on the initial list but aim to qualify for the national camp. The top three from each weight category at this championship will earn a spot in the camp. Other officials from Northeastern states faced similar pressures, with one stating that the president of their state association was also feeling the heat and could not act freely. The Boxing Federation of India is assisting the competing athletes by covering their travel and accommodation costs. Notable figures, including Olympic bronze medallist Vijender Singh and world champion Nikhat Zareen, attended the event's opening day to support the participants. As for the competitions, reigning champion Anamika Hooda defended her title effectively, knocking out her opponent in the second round. Other boxers also had impressive performances, with some winning by unanimous decisions and others securing knockouts, indicating a highly competitive atmosphere in the tournament.