Union Sports and Youth Affairs Minister, Anurag Thakur, addressed the ongoing protests by wrestlers against Wrestling Federation of India chief and BJP MP, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, in a press conference held in Ahmedabad. Thakur urged the wrestlers to get their statements registered in the sexual harassment case filed against Singh and assured them that appropriate action would be taken once the investigations were concluded.
Responding to the detention of wrestlers seeking Singh’s arrest in Delhi, Thakur stated that protesters had the right to express their grievances but should do so within designated areas. He mentioned a recent candle march that took place with proper permission. Thakur highlighted that the Delhi Police had already registered FIRs and initiated investigations, emphasizing the importance of wrestlers registering their statements. He assured them that once the investigations were completed, appropriate action would be taken against Singh.
During the press conference, Thakur also criticized the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), predicting that the next general election would mark the end of the party. He responded to allegations made by the RJD, which compared the new parliament building to a coffin, stating that the party’s corrupt practices would lead to their downfall. Thakur emphasized that people would hold them accountable and that the upcoming elections would seal their fate.
In another remark, Thakur indirectly targeted the Congress and its leader, Rahul Gandhi. He addressed the opposition’s claims that sadhu-sants (holy men) were invited to inaugurate the new Parliament building instead of the chief opposition party. Thakur highlighted that an all-religion prayer was held during the inauguration, inviting all opposition parties, parliamentarians, and chief ministers. He criticized those boycotting the event, suggesting that they were the same people known for corruption and the obstruction of parliamentary proceedings.
Responding to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s comment on rising inflation, Thakur challenged him openly, stating that compared to countries like America and Europe, India had better control over inflation. He accused the Congress of mismanaging the economy during their rule, leading to high inflation and corruption. Thakur pointed out that despite no global recession during the Congress’s tenure, inflation rates reached 12 to 14 percent, and banks were on the brink of closure.
In conclusion, Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur addressed the wrestlers’ protests, promising action in the sexual harassment case against the Wrestling Federation chief. He criticized the RJD and opposition parties, asserting that the upcoming elections would be a turning point for them. Thakur also challenged the Congress’s claims about inflation, highlighting India’s comparatively better management under the BJP government.