Wrestler Vinesh Phogat being taken by the police
Ravi Speaks:
Yesterday, the protesting wrestlers assembled in Haridwar to demonstrate their discontent and issued a five-day ultimatum to the government, demanding the resolution of their grievances. They had initially planned to immerse their medals in the Ganges but decided to postpone this symbolic act following discussions with farmer leader Naresh Tikait.
It is truly distressing to witness the plight of these athletes who have brought honor and recognition to our nation through their sporting achievements, yet they are subjected to mistreatment and nearly forgotten by the central government. If our international players, who have proudly earned their hard-earned medals in the international arena, are not given due respect, how can we expect our reputation in the global sports community and beyond to flourish?
The most disconcerting aspect is that finally it took the Supreme Court to intervene and instruct the authorities to file a First Information Report (FIR) against Brijbhushan Singh, the head of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). This intervention by the apex court should not have happened in the first place but the court had to.
Surprisingly, even the Prime Minister had assured one of the protesting international wrestler of his full support when she was praised for winning the Olympic medal. However, it is ironic that there has been no word from any prominent leaders since then, and their silence implies a disregard for the matter.
If these talented wrestlers, who are considered champions, were to be enticed by a developed country to switch their allegiance and earn accolades for them, would our government be pleased with such acts? These wrestlers are invaluable assets to our nation. Their extraordinary feats inspire the younger generation to follow in their footsteps.
Unfortunately, the current treatment of such exceptional athletes suggests that the government is not playing fair. If deliberate ignorance continues to prevail, resulting in the chaotic situation in which these wrestlers find themselves, it will undoubtedly make the people of this country more discerning. Ultimately, this could adversely affect the standing of the present government in the eyes of the public.
The dismay expressed by the global wrestling body, United World Wrestling (UWW), over the treatment of our international wrestlers, particularly the female athletes, has drawn attention. Despite our government’s pride in maintaining exemplary foreign relations and a positive international image, it is disheartening to see that the UWW has acknowledged the lack of attention given to the protesting women, highlighting the need for their well-being to be addressed.
Expressing deep concern over the treatment and detention of wrestlers during their march to the new Parliament building in India, the United World Wrestling (UWW) has strongly criticized the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. UWW has expressed disappointment over the lack of progress in the investigations into allegations of abuse and harassment made by the wrestlers, and has called for a comprehensive and unbiased inquiry. Moreover, UWW has warned that it may suspend the federation if WFI elections are not conducted within 45 days.
UWW has emphasized its commitment to the well-being of the wrestlers and intends to hold a meeting with them to inquire about their condition and reaffirm its support for a fair resolution of their concerns. Furthermore, UWW has already taken action by relocating the Asian Championship, initially planned in New Delhi earlier this year.
In response to the allegations against the WFI chief, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) previously announced the formation of an ad hoc committee tasked with conducting elections for the WFI Executive Committee within 45 days. Additionally, the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has established an oversight committee to investigate the allegations.
The movement against the WFI chief has garnered widespread support from renowned wrestlers and opposition leaders, who have visited the protest site to express their solidarity.Let us realise the series of happenings with these wrestlers while they have been protesting.There have been various obstacles and discouraging acts happening from the authorities to wind up the wrestlers’ agitation.This has forced them to take the steps like throwing /submerging their hard earned medals in the Ganges.We as the citizens and wrestler enthusiasts must join their struggle and ensure that they get the justice.Circulate this article to all your friends and make their struggle a success.
#SupportOurChampions #StandUpForAthletes #DemandFairPlay #SpeakUpForWrestlers #EqualOpportunities #AthleteAdvocates #AthleteRightsMatter #DemandFairness #UnveilTheTruth