Despite several political offers, Sakshi Malik has decided not to join the Congress party as she wants to continue her fight for women in wrestling. She believes that joining a political party would send the wrong message and distract from her cause. While her fellow Olympians Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat have chosen to join Congress, Sakshi Malik remains apolitical and focused on her fight against exploitation in the wrestling industry, specifically against one person - Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
In the realm of Indian sports, wrestling has emerged as a formidable force, with Olympic medalists Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik serving as role models for aspiring athletes. However, recent events have shed light on their divergent paths in the political arena.
Political Pursuits of Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia
Vinesh Phogat, an Olympic bronze medalist, has joined the Indian National Congress party, along with fellow wrestler Bajrang Punia. Their decision has raised eyebrows, as both athletes have been vocal critics of the party in the past. However, Phogat has defended her decision, stating that she believes Congress is the only party that can bring about meaningful change for women's wrestling.
Sakshi Malik's Focus on Advocacy
In contrast to Phogat and Punia, Sakshi Malik, an Olympic silver medalist, has chosen to remain apolitical. She has declined several political offers, preferring to focus on her fight against exploitation in the wrestling industry. Malik has specifically targeted Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the president of the Wrestling Federation of India, accusing him of corruption and misconduct.
Background of the Wrestling Federation of India
The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has been embroiled in controversy for several years. In 2021, over 30 wrestlers, including Vinesh Phogat, staged a protest against Singh at the Sports Authority of India training center in New Delhi. The wrestlers accused Singh of sexual harassment, nepotism, and financial misappropriation.
Investigation and Consequences
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports ordered an investigation into the allegations. The inquiry committee recommended that Singh be suspended as WFI president and that the federation be placed under an ad-hoc committee until further notice. However, Singh has denied the allegations and has not been charged with any crime.
FAQs
1. Why did Vinesh Phogat join Congress?
Vinesh Phogat stated that she believes Congress is the only party that can bring about meaningful change for women's wrestling.
2. Why did Sakshi Malik decline political offers?
Sakshi Malik wants to remain apolitical and focus on her fight against exploitation in the wrestling industry.
3. What are the allegations against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh?
Singh has been accused of sexual harassment, nepotism, and financial misappropriation.
4. What is the status of the investigation into the WFI?
The inquiry committee has recommended that Singh be suspended as WFI president and that the federation be placed under an ad-hoc committee.
5. What is the future of wrestling in India?
The future of wrestling in India is uncertain, but the actions of Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik have highlighted both the challenges and opportunities facing the sport. Their unwavering commitment to their respective paths is an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a reminder of the power of advocacy.
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