The wrestlers, who have in the past complained of poor diet in the national camp and Government funds not reaching them, have accused the federation of not passing on money already received from the Sports Ministry.

 

One wrestler said: "Before we left, the federation had told us the Ministry would reimburse the money on our return, but it is more than two months and we are still waiting."

 

A federation official said the money, relating to two events in Belarus and Egypt in February and March respectively, would be returned to the wrestlers soon.

 

The Indian Government has earmarked 7 billion rupees (£107 million) for the preparation of elite athletes for the games, seen as a big advertisement for India's rapid economic growth.

 

Indian wrestlers have performed consistently in international meets and their hopes were boosted after Sushil Kumar won a bronze medal at last year's Beijing Olympics.