Indian Wrestlers Call Off Protest, Vow Legal Battle Against WFI Chief

NEW DELHI: In a significant development, the group of Indian wrestlers who had been protesting against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief, announced on Sunday that they would be ending their agitation. The wrestlers stated that they intended to fight their battle against Singh in the court of law rather than on the streets. This decision came just a day after they had threatened to resume their protests against the WFI chief. The main demand of the wrestlers has been the arrest of Singh, who has been accused of sexual harassment by several wrestlers.

Prominent Indian wrestlers Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Bajrang Punia took to Twitter and posted identical tweets stating that the government had fulfilled its promise of filing a chargesheet against Singh. They affirmed their commitment to continue fighting for justice but clarified that it would now be pursued through legal means rather than street protests. The wrestlers also mentioned that the electoral reform process within the WFI had begun as promised, and they were waiting for the fulfillment of other commitments made by the government regarding the upcoming WFI elections scheduled for July 11. Following their statement, Vinesh and Sakshi further announced that they would be taking a break from social media for a few days.

This decision to end the protests came after the police filed charges of sexual harassment and criminal intimidation against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh earlier this month, in response to complaints lodged by several female wrestlers. The delayed action had sparked outrage among the wrestling community and the public. Singh, who has been relieved of his administrative responsibilities, vehemently denies all charges against him. If found guilty, he could face up to three years in prison. One of Singh's aides stated that he would continue to cooperate with the police and respect the court's decision.

During a live address on social media on Saturday, the three leading wrestlers spearheading the protest had emphasized that their fight against Singh would persist. They stated that they were evaluating the chargesheet filed against him and considering the next steps in their campaign. Over the course of the investigation, more than 155 individuals, including several Olympic and Asian Games medalists, have been questioned by the police.

The wrestlers' protest had commenced on January 18, when they first arrived at Jantar Mantar. However, on May 28, the Delhi Police detained them for violating law and order, leading to the suspension of their sit-in. Following assurances from Sports Minister Anurag Thakur that a chargesheet would be filed against Singh by June 15 and none of his family members would be allowed to contest WFI elections, the wrestlers temporarily halted their protests. Throughout their agitation, they received substantial support from farmer leaders, khap panchayats, and various other organizations.

In conclusion, the protesting Indian wrestlers have decided to conclude their street protests against the WFI chief, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. They will now focus on pursuing legal action against him. The wrestlers have welcomed the filing of charges and await the fulfillment of other promises made by the government regarding electoral reforms within the WFI. The outcome of the court proceedings will determine the future course of action in their fight for justice.

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