Responding to the news of Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia joining the Indian National Congress ahead of the Haryana Assembly Polls, Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik stated that she will not be taking a political plunge like her comrades. Malik, who was at the forefront of the protest against former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, stated that her fight was against him alone and she remains apolitical in order to stay true to the cause of women in wrestling. She also emphasized on the importance of continuing their agitation until the exploitation of women in the sport ends.
Political Divide in Indian Wrestling: Phogat and Punia Join Congress, Malik Remains Apolitical
In a significant development in Indian sports and politics, Olympic medalists Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia have joined the Indian National Congress ahead of the upcoming Haryana Assembly Polls. However, fellow Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik has declined to follow suit, opting to remain apolitical.
Background
The decision by Phogat and Punia to enter politics comes amidst a period of turmoil in the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). In January 2023, several prominent wrestlers, including Phogat and Malik, staged a protest against then-WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, accusing him of sexual harassment and financial irregularities. The protest culminated in Singh's resignation and the appointment of a new WFI president.
Phogat and Punia's Decision
Phogat and Punia have both expressed a desire to contribute to the development of sports and the welfare of Indian athletes through their involvement in politics. Phogat, a two-time Olympic medalist, stated that she was "inspired by the Congress's commitment to women's empowerment and social justice." Punia, a three-time Olympian, said he hoped to "use his platform to bring about positive change in Haryana and India."
Malik's Response
In contrast to Phogat and Punia, Sakshi Malik has chosen to remain apolitical. She clarified that her fight against Singh was specific to his alleged misconduct and not a broader political issue. Malik emphasized her commitment to continuing the agitation against the exploitation of women in wrestling and her belief that she could achieve more through her activism.
FAQs
1. Why did Phogat and Punia join Congress?
They cited the party's commitment to women's empowerment and social justice as factors in their decision.
2. Why did Sakshi Malik decline to join Congress?
She stated that her fight against Singh was specific to him and she remains apolitical to remain true to the cause of women in wrestling.
3. What was the basis of the wrestlers' protest against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh?
They accused Singh of sexual harassment, financial irregularities, and autocratic leadership.
4. What has happened to Singh since the protest?
He resigned as WFI president and is currently facing an investigation by an oversight committee appointed by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
5. Will Sakshi Malik continue her activism against exploitation in wrestling?
Yes, she has emphasized her commitment to continuing the agitation until the problem is resolved.
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