Sakshi Malik highlights ongoing issues with the Wrestling Federation of India
In a recent development, renowned wrestler Sakshi Malik has expressed her and her fellow wrestlers’ decision to refrain from participating in the upcoming Asian Games until their concerns are adequately addressed. Malik’s statement sheds light on the issues surrounding the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and its president, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
Speaking to ANI, Malik emphasized the significance of resolving the prevailing problems before committing to the Asian Games. “We will participate in the Asian Games only when all these issues are resolved,” she asserted. The wrestler’s statement suggests that their decision stems from their dissatisfaction with the WFI and Singh, indicating a breakdown in trust and cooperation.
Malik’s concerns were further underlined when it was revealed that a woman wrestler was taken by the Delhi police to the residence of WFI president Brij Bhushan Singh. The purpose of the visit was to “recreate the scene and recall the places where she faced harassment,” according to PTI. The incident raises questions about the role of the police and their involvement in addressing the alleged harassment faced by wrestlers.
Furthermore, the wrestlers’ recent encounter with the police during the inauguration of the new Parliament added to the mounting tensions. The athletes were detained by the Delhi police on the grounds of “breaching law and order in the capital” after attempting to hold a women’s maha panchayat near the parliament premises. The police cleared the protest site and transported the wrestlers to separate locations.
The wrestlers’ decision not to participate in the Asian Games underscores the mental and emotional toll they have endured due to the ongoing issues. “You can’t understand what we’re going through mentally each day,” expressed Sakshi Malik, shedding light on the challenges faced by the wrestlers on a daily basis.
The Asian Games, a highly anticipated sporting event, is scheduled to take place in the near future. However, with the wrestlers’ stance on participation contingent on the resolution of their grievances, it remains to be seen how the Wrestling Federation of India and its president will respond to their demands.
The WFI and Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh now face the crucial task of addressing the concerns raised by Sakshi Malik and her fellow wrestlers. The resolution of these issues is imperative not only to ensure the participation of these athletes in the Asian Games but also to restore trust and harmony within the Indian wrestling community.
As the situation unfolds, it is hoped that a constructive dialogue will be initiated between the wrestlers and the WFI, leading to a swift and satisfactory resolution of their concerns. Only then can Indian wrestling regain its focus and the athletes can fully prepare themselves to represent their country at the Asian Games with pride and determination.
