Nation

‘Doesn’t Know Where To Draw The Line’: Protesting Wrestlers Recount Experience With WFI Chief

May 6, 2023
Bharat Times

New Delhi: The top wrestlers of the country, who have been staging a protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh on charges of sexual harassment and intimidation, said it is really unfortunate that they have been sitting at the protest site for several days and there still hasn’t been any hearing on the matter. In an exclusive conversation with ABP News at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on Saturday, the protesting wrestlers said they have taken to the streets hoping for justice and they will continue their protest till justice is meted out.

Recounting her experience with Brij Bhushan Singh, wrestler Vinesh Phogat said, “The way he (Singh) is speaking about the wrestlers, in a very disrespectful way, in front of the national media, it only shows his character. He would use foul language during national sports championships. He doesn’t know where to draw the line.”

Talking about the alleged body shaming instances, she said, “During one of the trials in Lucknow, once he (Brij Bhushan Singh) made me sit next to him, and pointing at another wrestler, he said, ‘Dekho ye toh ladki lag hi nahi rahi hain…’ (Look, she doesn’t even look like a girl)’.”

Olympic medallist Bajrang Punia, talking about the allegations against the WFI chief, said a similar voice was raised in 2012. The junior players had lodged an FIR, but Brij Bhushan Singh got it dismissed in 24 hours. A voice was again raised in 2014, but it was also suppressed.

The disgruntled wrestlers, including Vinesh Phogat, further said it is really unfortunate that the wrestlers are having to stage a protest for such a long time and yet there hasn’t been any hearing on the matter.

“Something important must have happened and that is why we are sitting here. We are not retired players nor are we sitting here for publicity. People should understand that such renowned wrestlers would not have sat on a protest like this if nothing had happened,” she said.

Talking about the allegations, wrestler Satyawart Kadian said there have been several instances where the female grapplers have complained that Brij Bhushan Singh touched them without consent.