Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has strongly condemned the detention of prominent Indian wrestlers, Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Bajrang Punia, by the Delhi Police during their protest against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. In a scathing remark, Stalin targeted the central government, highlighting the police’s actions as evidence that the ‘Sengol,’ a symbol of governance and justice installed in the new Parliament building, has “bent” on its very first day.
The champion wrestlers had resumed their agitation on April 23, demanding the arrest of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who faced allegations of sexual harassment by several women grapplers, including a minor. Despite months passing since the allegations were made public, the BJP MP continues to hold his position within the WFI, prompting criticism from various quarters.
Expressing his discontent on Twitter, Chief Minister Stalin emphasized the failure of the BJP leadership to address the serious allegations against Singh. He condemned the police’s actions in detaining the wrestlers and criticized the manner in which they were dragged away, describing it as condemnable. Stalin further questioned the appropriateness of such an incident occurring on the day of the inauguration of the new Parliament building, which bypassed the President and took place amid opposition boycott.
The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’s remarks are seen as a direct criticism of the Narendra Modi-led government at the center. The ‘Sengol,’ an emblem of justice and governance, has been a symbol of pride and authority associated with the central government. However, Stalin’s use of the term “bent” implies a loss of faith and trust in the government’s ability to uphold justice and address pressing issues such as the alleged sexual harassment within the WFI.
The detention of Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Bajrang Punia has garnered significant attention, with many expressing solidarity with the wrestlers and questioning the police’s actions. The incident has further fueled debates surrounding freedom of expression and the right to protest.
As the chief of the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party in Tamil Nadu, Stalin’s criticism carries weight and highlights the growing concerns regarding accountability and transparency in the country’s sports administration. The issue of women’s safety and the need for prompt action against individuals accused of sexual harassment is of utmost importance, and Stalin’s statement underscores the urgency of addressing such allegations seriously.
The BJP leadership, along with the Wrestling Federation of India, is now under increased scrutiny to respond to the allegations against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and take appropriate action. The incident has also reignited discussions on the need for stricter measures to ensure the safety and welfare of athletes in the country.
As the controversy surrounding the detention of the wrestlers unfolds, it remains to be seen how the central government and the Wrestling Federation of India will respond to the criticism and address the pressing concerns raised by Chief Minister M K Stalin and other voices demanding justice and accountability.
