Vinesh Phogat: Entire System Protecting Brij Bhushan; Wrestlers Won't Relent
Vinesh Phogat, one of India's most decorated wrestlers, has stepped up her criticism of the establishment, alleging that the entire machinery is shielding Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. She asserted that the wrestlers will not relent in their fight for justice, despite the mounting pressure.
"The entire system is working to protect Brij Bhushan," Phogat told reporters, moments after a meeting with fellow protesting athletes. "But we have no other option but to continue our struggle. We will not be intimidated."
The wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik, have been camping at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi since January, accusing Singh of sexual harassment, intimidation, and abuse of power. Their protests have forced the government and the judiciary to take note of their grievances.
The Delhi Police registered two FIRs against Singh in April, following a Supreme Court directive. The first FIR was based on the complaint filed by a minor wrestler under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, while the second pertained to allegations of sexual harassment by seven other adult wrestlers.
Singh, a six-time MP and president of the WFI since 2012, has denied all allegations, terming them "politically motivated" and a "conspiracy" to ruin his reputation. He has extended his full cooperation to the investigation.
The Supreme Court, which intervened in the matter, has urged the Delhi Police to conduct the probe expeditiously and has refused to stay the FIRs. The Court also directed authorities to ensure that the protesting wrestlers were not evicted from Jantar Mantar.
Despite these measures, Vinesh Phogat and her fellow protesters remain dissatisfied with the progress, stating that the investigation is being influenced by the accused's political connections. "We have seen how the entire system, from the police to the sports ministry, is trying to protect him," Phogat said.
The wrestlers have also demanded the suspension of Singh as WFI chief and the constitution of a special investigation team (SIT) to look into the matter. They have repeatedly said that their fight is not just for themselves but for every athlete who has faced similar exploitation.
Support for the wrestlers has poured in from various quarters, including sportspersons, actors, and political leaders. The Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) has also intervened, summoning authorities to explain the progress of the investigation.
Meanwhile, the Sports Ministry has maintained that it is committed to a free and fair inquiry, but has stopped short of removing Singh. This has led to mounting frustration among the protesters, who have threatened to intensify their agitation.
Phogat's latest statement appears to be a warning that the prolonged standoff is far from over. With the wrestlers vowing to continue their fight, the pressure is now on the system to deliver justice or face further embarrassment.
