Sakshi Malik Calls for Exclusion of Sanjay Singh from Wrestling Federation of India, Retires in Protest
In a significant development, Olympic bronze medallist Sakshi Malik has raised concerns about the recently elected Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and specifically called for the exclusion of Sanjay Singh, a loyalist of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, from the federation.
Retirement Announcement Amid WFI Turmoil
Sakshi Malik announced her retirement on December 21, expressing her discontent with the election of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh as the WFI President. Addressing the media, she clarified that her primary objection lies with Sanjay Singh and asserted her willingness to accept the new federation without his involvement.
Expressing her stance, Malik stated, “We don’t have any issues with the new federation except one man, Sanjay Singh. We do not have any issue if the new body comes back without Sanjay Singh.” She raised concerns about her family’s safety, alleging threatening phone calls to her mother from supporters of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
Sakshi Malik urged the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to ensure the removal of Sanjay Singh from the federation, emphasizing the need for a secure environment for emerging wrestlers. She highlighted the alleged power abuse by Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh after the WFI elections and called for intervention to maintain integrity.
Concerns for Junior Wrestlers and Appeal for Age Group Nationals
The wrestler requested the ad-hoc panel to promptly organize age group nationals, expressing concern for the young wrestlers. She emphasized the importance of conducting U15, U17, and U20 nationals at the earliest to support the development of budding talents in Indian wrestling.
Addressing speculations, Sakshi Malik clarified that her retirement decision is not fueled by a desire to enter sports administration. She cited disturbances in her current state of mind, emphasizing the threats and abuses received on social media. Malik called for understanding and empathy amid the challenges she faces.
It is noteworthy that on the same day, junior wrestlers assembled at Jantar Mantar to protest against Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, and Vinesh Phogat. They attributed the turmoil in Indian wrestling to these senior athletes, creating a complex scenario within the wrestling community.
