Wrestling stalwarts Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, and Sakshi Malik contemplate political foray amidst allegations of obstructing young athletes’ opportunities by the new Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president, Sanjay Singh. Sanjay asserts irregularities in the sports ministry’s dissolution of the federation and plans to challenge it in court.
Sanjay Singh, recently elected as WFI president and reportedly associated with Brijbhushan Sharan Singh accused of sexual abuse, claims that the trio—Bajrang, Vinesh, and Sakshi—is impeding the progress of emerging talents. The sports ministry’s suspension of the wrestling federation, announced on Sunday, faces scrutiny, with Sanjay expressing intentions to legally challenge the decision.
Sakshi Malik, 31, announced her retirement in protest against Sanjay’s election, while 29-year-old Bajrang Punia returned the Padma Shri award as a mark of dissent. Vinesh Phogat, 27, joined the dissent by deciding to return the Khel Ratna and Arjuna awards. The ongoing dispute underscores the turmoil within the wrestling community.
Sanjay Singh alleges that the trio’s inclination toward politics aims to secure their positions and hinder the ascent of the younger generation in wrestling. Despite the sports ministry’s intervention, the matter remains unresolved, with Sanjay emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation into the actions leading to the federation’s suspension.
While athletes entering politics isn’t uncommon, critics argue that such transitions can be disruptive, potentially diverting attention from pressing issues in sports governance.
