Junior wrestlers and coaches have initiated protests at Jantar Mantar over the suspension of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). Expressing frustration, they threatened to return awards like the Arjuna Award within 10 days if the federation’s suspension is not lifted.
The protest stems from allegations against BJP MP Brijbhushan Sharan Singh for sexual harassment. Sanjay Singh, a close associate of Singh, was recently elected WFI President, triggering the athletes’ opposition, particularly led by Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, and Bajrang Punia.
Blaming these prominent wrestlers, junior athletes argue that the suspension has resulted in a wasted year, affecting their careers. The sports ministry’s decision to suspend WFI followed the cancellation of the National Under-15 and Under-20 Championships scheduled after Sanjay Singh’s demise.
Muzaffarnagar Stadium coach Pradeep Kumar criticized the prominent wrestlers, stating that their fight, seemingly for women and junior wrestlers, has ruined the careers of many. He expressed concern that once the suspension is lifted, the exposure for these athletes will cease.
Vivek Malik of Arya Samaj Akhara highlighted the impact on junior wrestlers, stating that an entire year has been wasted due to the decision of the new WFI. The coach emphasized that the decision was purportedly made for the benefit of wrestlers who couldn’t participate in district or state-level competitions.
Notably, Sakshi Malik announced her retirement from wrestling following Sanjay Singh’s election as WFI head. Vinesh Phogat declared the return of Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna and Arjuna Award, while Bajrang Punia requested Prime Minister Modi to return the Padma Shri, eventually relinquishing the award.
The suspension and subsequent protests reveal deeper conflicts within the wrestling community, potentially jeopardizing the careers of promising junior athletes.
