The wrestling community in India is currently in turmoil as a group of prominent wrestlers, including Olympic and World medallists such as Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, and Bajrang Punia, have taken a drastic step to protest against the former chief of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
This article delves into the controversial protest where the wrestlers have decided to throw their hard-earned medals into the sacred river Ganga, seeking justice and highlighting the allegations of sexual harassment made against Singh.
Wrestlers’ Protest and the Medals Controversy
In a dramatic turn of events, the wrestlers made a strong statement by reaching Haridwar, a city considered holy due to its proximity to the river Ganga.
Their intention was to immerse their medals in the sacred river as a symbolic gesture to express their frustration and disappointment with the current state of affairs in Indian wrestling.
The wrestlers firmly believe that their medals, representing their hard work and dedication, belong in the pure Ganges rather than being associated with an impure system.
Furthermore, the wrestlers have announced that they will undertake an indefinite hunger strike at India Gate, a prominent landmark in New Delhi, to draw attention to their cause. This drastic step is aimed at garnering support and pressuring the authorities to take swift action against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who stands accused of sexual harassment.
Sania Mirza’s Reaction
Sania Mirza, a celebrated Indian athlete and a woman herself, expressed her deep concern and empathy for the wrestlers’ plight. Mirza acknowledged the achievements of these athletes and stressed the importance of standing with them during this difficult time. She emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and called for justice to be served promptly.
Wrestlers’ Perspective: Ganga as a Sacred Place
For the protesting wrestlers, the decision to immerse their medals in the Ganga holds immense symbolic significance. They perceive the river as a divine and pure entity, capable of purifying not only physical objects but also the injustices they have faced.
The wrestlers consider their hard-earned medals to be invaluable to the nation, and they believe that placing them in the Ganges aligns with the sanctity and reverence they hold for their sport and the country.
Reason Behind the Protest: Allegations of Sexual Harassment
The root cause of the wrestlers’ protest lies in the allegations of sexual harassment leveled against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The wrestlers have been demanding the former WFI president’s arrest for over a month, staging protests at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. They feel that the authorities have not taken their grievances seriously and have failed to ensure a safe and respectful environment for athletes.
Anil Kumble’s Support and Call for Dialogue
Renowned former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble expressed his dismay at the mistreatment of the wrestlers during the protest. He urged all parties involved to engage in meaningful dialogue to find a resolution. Kumble emphasized that peaceful discussions and understanding could pave the way for a fair and just resolution to the ongoing controversy.
Wrestlers’ Frustration with the Police and Authorities
The wrestlers’ frustration with the police and authorities stems from what they perceive as excessive force and unwarranted arrests.
They claim that their peaceful protest was met with aggression and that they were subjected to mistreatment by law enforcement officials. The wrestlers lament that while they sought justice for the sexual harassment they endured, they have been treated as criminals instead. They express disappointment with the system’s response and assert that the real wrongdoer continues to evade accountability.
Conclusion
The wrestlers’ decision to throw their medals into the river Ganga has sent shockwaves through the Indian wrestling community. It serves as a powerful statement highlighting the urgent need for addressing the allegations of sexual harassment and the wrestlers’ demand for justice. The protest aims to shed light on the challenges faced by athletes and the importance of fostering a safe and supportive environment within sports organizations. The wrestlers’ determination and resilience in seeking justice resonate with the larger societal need for accountability and fairness.