The wrestling community is embroiled in turmoil as international medal-winning wrestlers, representing various states, have approached the world governing body, UWW, seeking intervention regarding the suspended Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). They accuse Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, and Sakshi Malik of orchestrating what they deem a "fake agitation."
These three wrestlers led protests against former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, alleging sexual exploitation of women wrestlers and advocating for his arrest. The matter is under judicial scrutiny, with Brij Bhushan currently out on bail.
The ongoing conflict between elite wrestlers and the BJP MP, Brij Bhushan, has disrupted national camps, hampering the sport's development. While an ad-hoc panel previously managed the sport, the newly-elected body's suspension by the Sports Ministry led to the reinstatement of the ad-hoc panel for day-to-day operations.
Several dissenting voices within the wrestling community have denounced the agitation led by the three wrestlers, claiming it has harmed Indian wrestling. One Asian Games and Commonwealth Games medalist expressed skepticism, stating that no other women wrestlers supported the allegations against the former WFI president.
The suspension of the WFI by UWW last August for delayed elections resulted in Indian wrestlers competing as neutral athletes at the World Championships.
Multiple wrestlers highlighted how the absence of junior national championships has stalled their careers. They urged UWW to restore the WFI for the sake of Indian wrestlers' future opportunities and development.
In a surprising turn, a minor who had previously filed a sexual harassment complaint against Brij Bhushan, later withdrew it, confessing that the complaint was fabricated under pressure from Punia, Phogat, and Malik. She implored UWW to recognize this manipulation and protect the integrity of wrestling in India.
Several wrestlers lamented that the controversies involving Punia, Malik, and Phogat are adversely affecting other wrestlers' careers, implying that the trio's actions have more to do with their own interests than the well-being of the sport.
(With Agency Inputs)
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