Turmoil in Indian Wrestling: Junior Wrestlers Protest, Targeting Top Athletes

Surprise Protest Emerges Against Bajrang, Sakshi, and Vinesh

A new chapter unfolded in the ongoing crisis within Indian wrestling as hundreds of junior wrestlers gathered at Jantar Mantar to protest the perceived loss of a crucial year in their careers. The unexpected protest specifically targeted elite grapplers Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat.

Junior Wrestlers Descend on Jantar Mantar from Across States

Loaded in buses, around 300 junior wrestlers arrived from various parts of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Delhi, catching the police off guard. The protest gained momentum with participants from Arya Samaj Akhara in Chhaprauli, Baghpat, and others from the Virender Wrestling Academy in Narela.

Protesters Accuse Top Wrestlers of Career Sabotage

Armed with banners reading 'UWW save our wrestling from these 3 wrestlers,' the protesters accused Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat of being responsible for the stagnation in their wrestling careers.

Security Struggles as Junior Wrestlers Raise Their Voices

Security personnel faced challenges in controlling the agitated protesters as they shouted slogans against the accused athletes. The demonstration aimed at highlighting the grievances of junior wrestlers who feel their career progression has been hindered.

Shift in Support Dynamics

Ironically, about a year ago, the same protest site saw massive support for Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat. Back then, these top wrestlers had garnered substantial backing when accusing former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment. The tables have turned, with the trio now facing opposition from within their own wrestling community.

Demands for WFI Restoration

The protesting wrestlers demanded the restoration of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), calling for the disbandment of the ad-hoc panel appointed by the sports ministry to oversee wrestling activities since January 2023.

International Commitment Amid Domestic Unrest

Simultaneously, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) announced the selection of a 13-member team for the Zagreb Open in Croatia. Notably absent from the team were Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat.

Uncertainties Surrounding Protest and Upcoming Competitions

Amid the protest and controversies, uncertainties loom over the participation and status of the athletes accused in the ongoing turmoil within Indian wrestling. The situation raises questions about the potential impact on the athletes' selection for future competitions and their standing within the wrestling community.

In summary, the protest underscores the complexities and tensions within Indian wrestling, with junior wrestlers expressing dissatisfaction and demanding changes in leadership and decision-making processes.