In a strongly-worded statement, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has expressed its concern over the treatment of protesting Indian wrestlers by Delhi Police during a recent demonstration. The IOC’s reaction came after the United World Wrestling (UWW) criticized the detention of the athletes and threatened to suspend the national federation if it failed to hold its election within the stipulated time. The top wrestlers, including Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, and Sangeeta Phogat, have accused the outgoing president of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, of sexual exploitation.
Describing the situation as “very disturbing,” the IOC called for an unbiased criminal investigation into the allegations made by the wrestlers. The organization emphasized the importance of following local law and urged that the safety and well-being of the athletes be considered throughout the process. While acknowledging the initial steps taken towards a criminal investigation, the IOC emphasized the need for further actions and a speedy conclusion to the investigation.
The incident at Jantar Mantar, where the wrestlers and their supporters breached the security cordon during their march towards the new Parliament building, witnessed unprecedented scenes of police dragging Olympic and World Championships medallists. The wrestlers had organized the protest to demand the arrest of Brij Bhushan, who they claim sexually harassed several women wrestlers, including a minor.
The IOC has been in close contact with the UWW since the allegations emerged and supports their efforts in addressing the issue as the governing body for wrestling in India. The IOC also urged the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to take necessary actions to protect the athletes and ensure that the WFI elections proceed as planned and in accordance with UWW regulations.
Expressing disappointment over the lack of progress in the investigations so far, the UWW announced its intention to hold a meeting with the wrestlers to inquire about their condition and safety. The governing body also stated that it would request further information about the next elective general assembly from the IOA and the Ad-hoc Committee of the WFI. Failure to hold the elections within the 45-day deadline may result in UWW suspending the federation, leading to athletes competing under a neutral flag.
The WFI had formed a two-member ad-hoc committee on April 27 to oversee the day-to-day affairs of the organization and conduct the elections. With only 11 days remaining to hold the polls, the clock is ticking for the WFI to comply with UWW’s requirements. It is worth noting that UWW had already reallocated the Asian Championship, which was initially planned to take place in New Delhi earlier this year.
As the controversy continues to unfold, the focus remains on the fair and unbiased investigation of the wrestlers’ allegations and the swift resolution of the governance issues within the WFI. The IOC and UWW are closely monitoring the situation to safeguard the athletes and ensure that appropriate action is taken to address any instances of harassment and abuse in sport.
