Wrestling in India is set to face further instability as Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik announces her retirement and Brij Bhushan’s close aide, Sanjay Singh, emerges as the new president of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). The tumultuous journey began in January when Malik, along with other top wrestlers including Bajrang Punia, took to the streets to protest against then WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. This movement culminated on December 21 with the election of Sanjay Singh, prompting concerns about the future of wrestling in India.
The initial protests were sparked by Malik and Vinesh Phogat accusing Brij Bhushan of sexual harassment. The allegations saw them demanding the removal of Brij Bhushan, the implementation of a sexual harassment panel within the federation, and a fresh start in the administration of wrestling in India. While the BJP MP has denied all allegations, the seriousness of the charges, including inappropriate touching, stalking, and intimidation, cannot be overlooked. The Delhi Police chargesheet against Brij Bhushan lists him as liable to be prosecuted and punished for sexual harassment, molestation, and stalking offenses.
Hopes for change were ignited when the Sports Ministry divested Brij Bhushan of his administrative powers in January and established an Oversight Committee. However, repeated delays by the Committee in reaching a conclusion prompted the wrestlers to approach the Supreme Court and file FIRs against Brij Bhushan. Despite the allegations remaining unproven in court, the weight carried by the claims of esteemed athletes who have brought pride to India on international platforms cannot be ignored. Furthermore, the Delhi Police chargesheet contains detailed accounts of 15 alleged incidents of sexual harassment.
The recently concluded WFI election was expected to bring the controversy to an end and restore stability to Indian wrestling. However, the victory of Sanjay Singh, Brij Bhushan’s close associate, has raised concerns and dealt a blow to the hopes of reform. The wrestlers had expressed their desire for a female president, a demand that seems to have been overlooked. Sanjay himself has highlighted his close relationship with Brij Bhushan, comparing it to that of a big brother and a younger brother, and emphasizing their shared background in organizing traditional mud wrestling competitions in Ayodhya and Kashi.
The election result has had a significant impact on the sport, leading to Sakshi Malik’s retirement. With one of India’s few individual Olympic medalists stepping away from wrestling, the future of the sport seems uncertain. The failure to bring about the desired changes within the federation has dashed the hopes of those seeking reform.
In conclusion, the recent developments in Indian wrestling have not only seen the retirement of a distinguished athlete but have also raised serious doubts about the stability and direction of the sport. The allegations made against the former WFI president, along with the subsequent election outcome, have left a cloud of uncertainty hanging over the sport that demands immediate attention. As the wrestling community and fans await further developments, the need for comprehensive reform within the Wrestling Federation of India becomes even more pressing.
