Indian Wrestlers’ Protests: Demanding Justice and Accountability

The Indian Wrestlers’ protests have captured the attention of the nation, as top Indian wrestlers, including Olympic medalists and a world champion, voice their concerns over the alleged sexual harassment of female wrestlers. The accused, BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, served as the president of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) during the incidents in question. This article delves into the chronology of these protests, shedding light on the demands for justice, government actions, and the overall response to the situation.

Allegations of Sexual Harassment

According to complaints filed on 21 April 2023 at the Connaught Place police station in New Delhi, two women wrestlers detailed instances of sexual harassment they endured. The complainants described how Brij Bhushan Singh allegedly touched their breasts and stomachs inappropriately under the pretext of checking their breathing patterns. Incidents occurred at various locations, including a restaurant, an office, a competition, and a warm-up session. Additionally, one complainant alleged that Brij Bhushan lifted her training jersey without her consent. Vinesh Phogat, a prominent wrestler and multiple medalists at the World Wrestling Championships, also claimed she faced mental harassment and torture from Brij Bhushan after missing out on a medal at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

The Start of Protests in January 2023

In January 2023, a group of thirty Indian wrestlers, including Olympic medalists Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, Anshu Malik, and Bajrang Punia, staged a sit-in at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. They accused Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, along with the coaches of the Wrestling Federation of India, of sexually harassing female players for years. Their demands included the disbanding of the federation. The protests temporarily ceased in January 2023 after the government assured the creation of an oversight committee to investigate the allegations.

Resumed Protests and Lack of Government Action

Despite the promise of an investigation, the protestors resumed their protests in April 2023, citing a lack of action from the authorities. They alleged that sexual harassment had been ongoing since 2012, with several incidents occurring at Brij Bhushan’s MP bungalow, which also served as the Wrestling Federation of India office. The wrestlers filed separate police complaints against Brij Bhushan, but the Delhi police did not register an FIR (First Information Report).

Delhi Police’s Inaction and Supreme Court Intervention

After prolonged inaction by the Delhi police, despite the allegations being cognizable in nature, the Supreme Court intervened. Only after the court’s intervention did the Delhi police file FIRs against Brij Bhushan under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses Act and for outraging modesty. The Supreme Court listed the case for hearing on 28 April 2023, acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations. The court directed the redaction of complainants’ names from the public copy of the petition. However, the protestors, represented by Senior Advocate Indira Jaising, expressed concerns about the transparency and impartiality of the ongoing investigation

Demands of the Protestors

The wrestlers’ demands included the immediate arrest of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, a thorough investigation into the allegations, and the establishment of an independent committee comprising women and legal experts to oversee the inquiry. They also criticized the government for its failure to address the issue promptly, holding it responsible for perpetuating a culture of silence and protecting the accused.

Widespread Support and Criticism of the Government

The protests received widespread support from various sections of society, including political leaders, athletes, and women’s rights organizations. Many prominent athletes expressed solidarity with the protestors and demanded justice for the victims. However, the government faced criticism for its delayed response and alleged attempts to shield Brij Bhushan Singh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah faced severe backlash for their silence on the matter.

The Ongoing Investigation

Following the Supreme Court’s intervention, the case was transferred to the Crime Branch for further investigation. A committee headed by former Supreme Court Judge Justice Indu Malhotra was constituted to oversee the inquiry. The committee had a mandate to probe all aspects related to the allegations of sexual harassment within the Wrestling Federation of India. The committee submitted its report to the court, which is yet to be made public. However, concerns about the fairness and transparency of the investigation remain.

Response and Reactions

The protests gained international attention, with various organizations expressing support and demanding justice for the victims. Wrestlers from other countries, including Olympic gold medalist Erica Wiebe, expressed solidarity with their Indian counterparts. The allegations against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh sent shockwaves through the wrestling fraternity and raised questions about the safety and well-being of female athletes in India.

The Indian Wrestlers’ protests have become a significant movement, shedding light on the issue of sexual harassment within the wrestling community. The allegations against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh have prompted the wrestling fraternity to demand justice and accountability. The ongoing investigation and the formation of an oversight committee signify a step in the right direction. However, it remains crucial to ensure a fair and transparent process that provides justice to the victims and addresses the systemic issues within the Wrestling Federation of India.