Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia Ready to Return Medals over WFI Chief Sexual Harassment Allegations
Indian wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, who won bronze medals at the Tokyo Olympics, have said they are willing to return their honours to the government. They made the announcement on Thursday during their ongoing protest in Delhi, where they have been demanding the arrest of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who is also a BJP MP, over allegations of sexual harassment made by seven wrestlers, including a minor.
Protesting wrestlers’ demands
The wrestlers have been protesting since April 23 at Jantar Mantar, where they have been joined by other wrestlers and athletes. Their demands include the removal of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh from his post, an investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment, and legal action against the accused. They have also been seeking the support of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and the government in their fight for justice.
On Wednesday night, a scuffle broke out between the wrestlers and on-duty police personnel at the protest site. The altercation occurred when the wrestlers were bringing in folding beds for their night stay, and the police allegedly began inquiring about it. Two protesters were reportedly injured in the incident.
During a press conference on Thursday morning, Bajrang Punia said that if the wrestlers are being subjected to such humiliation, their medals and awards are of no use to them.
“If this is how the wrestlers will be treated, what will we do with the medals? Rather we will live a normal life and return all the medals and awards to the Indian Government,” he said.
Vinesh Phogat also expressed her willingness to return her Khel Ratna award, saying, “Take it (medals) all away. We have been humiliated so much.”
Seeking justice for sexual harassment allegations
Both wrestlers highlighted the importance of fighting for their respect and seeking justice for the allegations of sexual harassment. “We are fighting for our respect but we are being crushed under their feet. Does every man have the right to abuse women?” said Vinesh.
Bajrang Punia also questioned the authorities’ treatment of the wrestlers, saying, “When police are pushing us, abusing us, misbehaving, then they don’t see that we are Padma Shri awardees, and not only me, there is Sakshi (Malik) also. Women and daughters are sitting on the streets, begging for kindness, but no one is bothered about getting justice.”
The wrestlers’ protest has drawn attention to the issue of sexual harassment in sports in India and has put pressure on the authorities to take action.
The WFI has formed a three-member committee to investigate the allegations against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, and the Delhi Police have registered two FIRs against him on the basis of complaints filed by the wrestlers.
However, the protesters have said that they will continue their agitation until their demands are met.
