In a powerful display of solidarity and determination, a group of wrestlers has taken a bold stand against sexual harassment in their sport. For the past 26 days, these brave athletes have been protesting at Jantar Mantar, demanding justice for women grapplers who have allegedly faced sexual harassment, including a minor, by the former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
Led by prominent wrestler Bajrang Punia, the protesting athletes are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice – their careers – in order to ensure justice for their fellow wrestlers. They firmly believe that holding accountable those responsible for the harassment is crucial to protect the dignity and safety of women in the wrestling community.
Addressing the media after a visit to Raj Ghat, Bajrang Punia emphasized the importance of their fight for justice. He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received from across the country and reminded the government of its commitment to initiatives like “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” (Save girl Educate girl), urging them to protect the country’s daughters.
Despite the ongoing protest affecting their preparation for this year’s Asian Games, the wrestlers prioritize justice for the victims over their own sporting ambitions. Bajrang Punia stated that their biggest medal would be achieving justice for the affected women. They refuse to tolerate a culture that allows individuals like Brij Bhushan and his followers to continue molesting female wrestlers.
The wrestlers also welcomed the decision of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) panel to conduct selection trials for the U-17 and U-23 Asian Championships. These trials, scheduled to be held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, will ensure fair representation and give young athletes an opportunity to showcase their skills on an international platform.
Bajrang Punia expressed gratitude for the committee’s involvement, emphasizing their trust in a transparent selection process. He made it clear that their protest was not against other wrestlers and that they did not want their practice to be affected. Their fight is directed at eradicating the presence of individuals like Brij Bhushan who tarnish the sport and harm its athletes.
If a decision regarding Brij Bhushan’s arrest is not reached by May 21, the wrestlers plan to hold a “big panchayat” (village council) to discuss their future course of action. They will rely on the wisdom and guidance of the elders in the community to determine the next steps in their protest.
In a bid to gather mass support for their cause, the wrestlers have taken their agitation beyond Jantar Mantar, visiting significant places in the city such as Hanuman Mandir, Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, and Raj Ghat. Their aim is to raise awareness about the challenges they face and the urgent need for reform in the wrestling community.
As these wrestlers sacrifice their careers to fight for justice, their determination and resilience inspire admiration and hope. Their protest serves as a powerful reminder that no individual or institution is above the law, and that safeguarding the rights and well-being of athletes, especially women, is of utmost importance. It is a call to action for authorities to take swift and decisive measures against any form of harassment in sports, ensuring a safer and more inclusive environment for all athletes.