Indian wrestlers, currently protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), have written a letter to Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha stating their demands.
Wrestlers have demanded the resignation of WFI President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and the dissolution of the WFI. They want a committee to enquire into the complaints of sexual harassment. Also, they want the formation of a new committee that will run the federation in consultation with the wrestlers.
The letter mentions that Vinesh Phogat was ‘mentally harassed and tortured by the WFI President after she missed out on an Olympic medal in Tokyo' which pushed her into contemplating suicide.
The letter has been signed by Vinesh, Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Ravi Dahiya and Deepak Punia. The wrestlers clarified that there is no involvement of any political party or industrialist in their movement. They just want an environment where young wrestlers, especially female wrestlers feel safe.
Also, the letter accuses WFI of financial wrongdoing as well. They claim that the contract payments to some senior wrestlers in the last few years via sponsorships from TATA motors has been partially made by WFI.
"As a woman and former athlete and presently a sports administrator, I am deeply concerned and disturbed by the latest developments in Indian wrestling, where a section of the athletes has brought serious allegations against a senior official of the sport," Usha had said in a statement issued by the IOA on January 19.
Usha said she has full faith in the government and has urged all the National Sports Federations (NSFs) to cooperate in this matter.
"Though this entire episode is a matter of great concern, I feel extremely assured by the quick response of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, who have sought an explanation from the concerned federation within the next 72 hours.
"I also have full faith in the Government of India, who I am sure will take the correct step in the right direction in this regard. However, as the IOA President, I sincerely hope the athletes, under no circumstances, are denied their rights," she said.
"The IOA also urges all the National Sports Federations (NSFs) to fully cooperate with all fact-finding agencies in the interest of Indian sports. The IOA will also do everything to safeguard the interests of women athletes," Usha added.
