In a shocking developement in the national capital, the Hungarian Embassy has flagged a case involving a group of individuals who sought visas for a purported competition in Budapest by posing as Indian wrestlers. The suspected human trafficking attempt came to light after the Hungarian Embassy notified the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) about the developement. The Indian Wrestling body later clarified that the documents submitted by the concerned individuals were fake.
The embassy cross-checked with WFI about the visa applications, which were supported by a recommendation letter allegedly issued by the national federation on March 4 for an “international wrestling training and competition programme” scheduled in Budapest from March 15 to 22.
The WFI replied that the letter was fake and had not been issued by the federation.
“This has reference to your e-mail dated March 12 seeking clarification regarding the authenticity of the document… the attached letter is fake and has not been issued by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI),” WFI president Sanjay Kumar Singh said in a reply to the embassy.
The federation specified the discrepancies in the document, including the use of the name of a former office-bearer in an incorrect capacity.
“It is also clarified that Mr V.N. Prasood is no longer holding the position of Secretary General of WFI and is currently serving as Vice President, WFI. The matter has been verified with Mr Prasood, who has categorically denied issuing any such letter,” Singh said.
WFI urges the Hungarian Embassy to take action against the perpetrators
11 wrestlers and a manager were recommended for visas to travel to Budapest, citing a training and competition programme in Budapest, as per the forged letter submitted to the embassy.
The document comprised a reference number and purportedly asked the embassy to grant visas to the athletes.
WFI officials said that the letterhead used in the document carried incorrect details, including an obsolete address, among other inconsistencies.
In its reply, WFI urged the embassy not to process any visa applications and demanded action against those involved.
“In view of the above, it is requested that no visa process may be initiated on the basis of the said letter, and appropriate legal action may be taken against the individuals involved,” the WFI said.
The federation also stated that official Indian entries for international competitions come only through the official route of the national body. The Ranking Series ‘Polyak Imre, Varga Nanos & Kozma Istvan Memorial’ tournament is the next major event involving Indian wrestlers in Budapest in July.
“The incident could potentially be linked to a human trafficking attempt, with individuals allegedly trying to travel abroad by posing as sportspersons using forged federation documents. Authorities are expected to examine the matter further,” WFI President Sanjay Singh told PTI.
“We had first received a call from the embassy. We asked for documents via e-mail. Upon checking we found that it’s all fake. We responded to the embassy immediately. There should be an enquiry into it.”
(With PTI Inputs)