Top Indian wrestlers Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, and Vinesh Phogat have refuted claims of withdrawing from their ongoing protest against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Singh. They have asserted that their fight for justice will continue until they see a resolution to the sexual harassment charges brought against Singh. The wrestlers clarified that while they have resumed their government jobs, reports of their withdrawal from the protest are mere rumors.
The Wrestlers’ Stand:
In response to reports suggesting their withdrawal, Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia took to social media to reaffirm their commitment to the protest. Both wrestlers emphasized that they had met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss their demand for Singh’s arrest and that they had not backed down from their stance. Sakshi Malik, in an interview with the news agency ANI, stated that the claims of the minor girl who filed the FIR being coerced to withdraw her complaint were false.
Continued Protest for Justice:
Bajrang Punia further dismissed the rumors of withdrawing from the movement and clarified that the news circulated to harm the wrestlers’ cause. He also refuted reports of the women wrestlers taking back the FIR, emphasizing that they were untrue. Bajrang Punia reiterated that the fight for justice would persist until their demands were met.
Background of the Protest:
The protest initiated by the wrestlers stems from sexual harassment allegations against Brij Bhushan Singh, the former WFI chief. Wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, and others, have been calling for action to be taken against Singh. They met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah to voice their concerns and reiterate their demand for Singh’s arrest. The wrestlers have accused Singh of making advances and promises of career assistance in exchange for sexual favors.
Previous Incidents and Legal Action:
The protesting wrestlers had faced detention and mistreatment by the Delhi Police on May 28, prompting them to visit Haridwar with the intention of disposing of their medals in the River Ganga. However, upon receiving requests from various individuals, they handed over the medals to farmer leaders to make a decision. Delhi Police has registered two FIRs against Brij Bhushan Singh, including one based on a complaint filed by the father of a minor wrestler under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The FIRs charge Singh with offenses such as assault, sexual harassment, and stalking, punishable with jail terms of up to seven years.
Denial of Allegations by Singh:
Brij Bhushan Singh has denied all allegations against him and has stated that he would take his own life if even a single accusation is proven true. Indian wrestlers Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, and others have vehemently denied reports of withdrawing from their protest against former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh. They remain resolute in their fight for justice, asserting that their demands will persist until Singh is held accountable for the sexual harassment charges. The wrestlers’ determination and unwavering commitment demonstrate their resolve to bring about change and ensure a safer environment within Indian sports.