Wrestling Federation of India Controversy: Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat Speak Out

In a recent turn of events, Indian wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat have taken to social media, specifically Twitter, to share their concerns and allegations against the former President of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, and the suspended President Sanjay Singh.

Joy Over National Championship:

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports suspended the newly elected body of the Wrestling Federation of India on December 24, 2023. Despite this, an ad-hoc committee was formed to manage the wrestling federation's affairs. Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat expressed their happiness when a press release from the committee announced the Senior National Championship scheduled from February 2 to February 5 in Jaipur, Rajasthan.

Allegations Against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and Sanjay Singh:

Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat alleged that many fellow athletes had contacted them, expressing a desire to participate in the National Championship. However, Brig Bhushan Sharan Singh's associates, including Sanjay Singh, are allegedly pressuring these athletes not to participate, creating a hostile environment for the upcoming competition in Jaipur. 

Interference in Athletes' Choices:

The wrestlers claimed that these officials, particularly Brig Bhushan Sharan Singh and Sanjay Singh, are not concerned about the future of the players but are instead imposing their authority by restricting athletes from participating in the National Championship.

Challenges to the Integrity of Wrestling:

Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat accused these officials of tarnishing the image of wrestling in India by creating unnecessary hurdles for athletes. They emphasised that their primary motive is to showcase the sport's true spirit and protect the interests of wrestlers. 

Retraction of Awards:

In an act of protest, Bajrang Punia had returned his Padma Shri award, and Vinesh Phogat had returned her Arjuna Award. Both athletes expressed their dissatisfaction with the current state of the wrestling federation under the influence of the suspended officials. 

Call for Transparency and Fair Play:

The wrestlers appealed to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to ensure transparency and fairness in wrestling administration. They highlighted the need for a neutral and unbiased approach, putting the well-being and future of athletes at the forefront. 

Concerns Over Mental Harassment:

Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat raised concerns about the mental harassment faced by athletes due to the interference of officials. They called for the immediate resolution of the ongoing controversy to safeguard the sport's integrity and the athletes' interests.The wrestling community awaits further developments as the controversy unfolds, impacting the upcoming National Championship and the future of wrestling administration in India.