Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has called for the removal of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh from his post after he faced allegations of sexual harassment from female wrestlers. Gandhi expressed solidarity with the protesting wrestlers during her visit to Jantar Mantar and accused the government of protecting Singh. She also demanded that the copy of the First Information Reports (FIRs) filed on Friday must be shared with the wrestlers so that they know the sections of the Indian Penal Code that have been applied.
Gandhi said that serious allegations have been made against Singh and that he should resign and be removed from his post. She further added that if he remains in his position, he will continue to exert pressure on the wrestlers and destroy their careers. Gandhi criticized the government for protecting Singh and said that the country should save its girls, especially those who have done so much for the country and their homes.
The Delhi Police filed two FIRs against Singh after allegations of sexual harassment were levelled by seven women wrestlers. One FIR relates to allegations of a minor wrestler and was registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, while the other was related to outraging modesty. The top wrestlers, who have been on a sit-in at Jantar Mantar in Delhi since Sunday, demanded that Singh be removed from all the positions he holds.
Gandhi had earlier voiced her support for the protesting wrestlers and slammed the government for ignoring their pleas. Congress leaders such as Bhupinder Hooda, Deepender Hooda and Udit Raj had also joined the protesting wrestlers at Jantar Mantar to express solidarity with them. The protests have garnered widespread support, and action is expected to be taken as public pressure continues to mount.