The resignation of India’s top wrestler, Sakshi Malik, in protest of the Wrestling Federation of India’s (WFI) new president, Sanjay Singh, highlights ongoing issues within the organization. Sanjay Singh, reportedly a close aide of the former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh, who faced accusations of sexual harassment, has now taken the helm of the federation.
Wrestlers had previously engaged in massive protests against Brij Bhushan Singh’s alleged misconduct. The situation gained international attention, with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) condemning the treatment of the wrestlers and calling for an impartial inquiry into their complaints.
Despite some initial measures in January, such as Brij Bhushan Singh losing administrative powers pending investigation, the situation remained unresolved. Wrestlers resumed protests in April due to the government not disclosing the findings of the panel investigating Brij Bhushan Singh, who is also a six-term MP from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
The delay and perceived lack of transparency in the investigation led to frustration among the wrestling community, culminating in Sanjay Singh’s election as the new WFI president. Sakshi Malik, a prominent figure in Indian wrestling and a bronze medalist at the 2016 Rio Olympics, expressed her dismay at the election results, citing the close association between Sanjay Singh and Brij Bhushan Singh. She emphasized the demand for a woman president to safeguard female wrestlers from harassment, pointing out the absence of women in the election process.
Wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who also participated in the protests, echoed Malik’s sentiments, condemning the election results and expressing concerns about the future of wrestling. The wrestlers had previously urged India’s sports minister to prevent individuals associated with Brij Bhushan Singh from participating in the WFI’s presidential election.
As of now, Sanjay Singh has not commented on Sakshi Malik’s decision to quit wrestling in protest. The situation underscores the broader issues within the WFI and the challenges faced by athletes in addressing allegations of misconduct within sports organizations.
