In a powerful display of solidarity and determination, women wrestlers in Delhi have announced their decision to organize a peaceful women’s Mahapanchayat (grand assembly) on May 28, right in front of the newly inaugurated Parliament building. The wrestlers have been protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who is also a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP, accusing him of sexual harassment. Prominent wrestlers leading the protest, including Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, and Sakshi Malik, have been gathering at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar since April 23, demanding justice and accountability from the wrestling federation. Their efforts have gained momentum and support, with wrestlers from various parts of the country joining their cause.
Speaking to reporters after concluding a march from Jantar Mantar to India Gate, Vinesh Phogat emphasized that women would take the lead in the mahapanchayat, stating, “Since this voice has been raised, it should reach far and wide. If justice is served to daughters of the country today, coming generations will draw courage from it.”The women wrestlers had approached the Supreme Court, which resulted in the registration of two FIRs on April 28. One FIR was lodged against Brij Bhushan Singh under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act for sexual harassment involving a minor girl, while another FIR was filed for sexual harassment by other complainants. Responding to the gravity of the situation, the Delhi Police has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to thoroughly investigate the allegations against Brij Bhushan Singh.
Concurrently, the Sports Ministry has taken a decisive step by suspending all activities of the wrestling federation until the investigation into the wrestlers’ allegations is completed. The upcoming Mahapanchayat in front of the new Parliament building holds significant symbolic value, coinciding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inauguration of the iconic structure. The wrestlers aim to amplify their demands for justice and bring attention to the need for stringent measures to address harassment in sports organizations. Their unwavering spirit and united front are expected to inspire future generations and create a meaningful impact in the pursuit of gender equality and safety within the wrestling community.