Wrestlers protesting in Delhi on Thursday alleging sexual harassment against the federation chief. And coaches said they were not satisfied after talks. With the government on Thursday and “won’t wrestle another day” until their demands are met.
Here are the 10 latest developments in this story:
“We have not received a satisfactory response; only assurances, no concrete action. If the government does not act, we will call the police. will approach,” said Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik.
At a press conference before ending the second day of their stay. At Delhi’s Jantar Mantar with around 200 people, the three wrestlers – among India’s most decorated wrestlers. Said, “We did not want to take the legal route because we had faith in the Prime Minister.”
The country’s sports ministry on Wednesday asked the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) to respond to the allegations within 72 hours, after triple Commonwealth Games gold medalist Vinesh Phogat went public with the allegations. Meanwhile, Sports Minister Anurag Thakur is meeting the wrestlers at his house.
WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who is a BJP MP, denied the allegations. “All allegations of sexual harassment are false, and if they are found to be true, I will commit suicide,” the 66-year-old was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.
Vinesh Phogat, 28, made the allegations against Mr Singh. And the trainers in a public protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, which was supported by other top wrestlers. “Women wrestlers have been sexually harassed by coaches and WFI presidents in national camps. I know at least 10-20 girls in national camps who have come and told me their stories,” she said.
Ms Phogat said she had never faced such exploitation herself, but claimed many wrestlers. Were afraid to come forward because of their humble origins. .They can’t fight them because they are strong. Wrestling is our only livelihood, and they are not letting us do it. Our only option is to die. So may as well. Die,” he said. added
The Delhi Commission for Women, a local body that looks after women’s issues. Has issued a notice to the sports ministry and asked the city police to file a case. Organization chief Swati Maliwal met protesting wrestlers at Jantar Mantar.
India’s #MeToo movement gained momentum in 2018 when a Bollywood actress accused a senior actor of sexual harassment. Soon, women from other backgrounds came forward. With a series of complaints, including against a former government minister. But activists say little fundamental change has taken place.
