Congress MLA and former wrestler Vinesh Phogat takes on the Wrestling Federation of India, vows to continue her fight for justice
Chandigarh, March 13: Former wrestler and Congress MLA Vinesh Phogat has launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government, accusing it of shielding former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. She alleged that the newly appointed WFI president, Sanjay Singh, is merely a ‘dummy’ acting under the influence of his predecessor.
Phogat, who was at the forefront of the wrestlers’ protests against Brij Bhushan, reiterated that her fight for justice is far from over and emphasized that she will continue advocating for reforms in Indian sports.
“Our Agitation Is Still On”
Speaking at an event, Vinesh Phogat expressed disappointment over the lack of meaningful action against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who was accused of sexual harassment by multiple wrestlers.
“Unfortunately, it has been more than two years since I have been struggling. Everyone saw the hide-and-seek that the government was trying to play with Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Our agitation is still on,” she stated.
She also emphasized that her political journey is not driven by ambition but by a desire to bring systemic change in the field of sports.
“If I am unable to bring a change in the field of sports in the state, it will be unfortunate,” Phogat added.
“WFI Chief Is Just a Puppet, I’m Not Here for a Position”
Phogat dismissed the legitimacy of the current WFI leadership, stating that Sanjay Singh is just a front for Brij Bhushan, ensuring that nothing truly changes in the federation.
“The current WFI chief is also a dummy of the previous one,” she remarked.
She further clarified that she is not in politics for power and has no personal ambition to hold high offices.
“I have not come here with the greed of becoming a minister, CM, or PM. I will give up my seat in a second if I am unable to make a difference,” she affirmed.
WFI Suspension Lifted, Wrestlers Remain Unconvinced
The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports recently lifted the suspension on the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), restoring its status as a National Sports Federation (NSF).
The suspension was initially imposed after newly elected WFI president Sanjay Singh announced national-level wrestling events in December 2023, violating the government’s directives.
However, wrestlers like Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, and Sakshi Malik remain skeptical about the federation’s leadership, as they believe the real power still lies with Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
The protests that began in 2023 saw India’s top wrestlers take to the streets, demanding strict action against Brij Bhushan for his alleged involvement in sexual harassment cases. Despite widespread protests, they believe justice has not been fully served.
What’s Next?
Vinesh Phogat’s hard-hitting statements signal that the fight for reform in Indian wrestling is far from over. With the WFI back in action and Brij Bhushan still wielding influence, the battle between the wrestlers and the system is set to continue.
Phogat’s political stance further intensifies the debate, raising questions about the true autonomy of sports bodies in India and their alleged ties with political powers.
Tags:
Vinesh Phogat, Wrestling Federation of India, Brij Bhushan Singh, WFI Controversy, Sanjay Singh, BJP Government, Wrestling Protests, Indian Sports, Sexual Harassment, Sports Ministry
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#VineshPhogat #WrestlingProtests #BrijBhushan #WFI #SportsReform #JusticeForWrestlers #IndianSports #WrestlingFederation #WrestlingNews #WFIControversy
