India, Oct. 25 -- The controversy over alleged irregularities in kurash sports certificates is affecting grassroots competitions in Maharashtra, with uncertainty over school tournaments threatening young athletes' preparations for the national championships scheduled in December.

The national kurash championships will be held from December 16 to 20 at Jogiyan Pul in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh. School-level, zonal and state selection competitions for under-14, under-17 and under-19 athletes typically need to be completed by October.

Parents and coaches fear genuine players could lose opportunities because of allegations involving others, despite months of training. The concerns come as India celebrates Pincky Balhara's bronze medal in kur...