Eminent Indian wrestlers including Olympic medalists Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik besides Vinesh Phogat and others have been staging a sit-in at Jantar Mantar for the past two days against the WFI president, accusing him of sexual harassment and intimidation and demanding That the federation be dissolved.
Usha said in a statement, “As a woman and former athlete and currently a sports administrator, I am deeply concerned and disturbed by the latest development in Indian wrestling, where a section of athletes have launched a serious complaint against a senior sports official. Allegations have been made.” Statement issued by the Indian Olympic Association.
(2/2) We will ensure a thorough investigation to ensure justice. We have also decided to form a special committee t… https://t.co/9wQ9u2M5qf
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On Thursday, a team of wrestlers including Bajrang, Vinesh, Anshu Malik, Sakshi and her husband Satyavrat Kadian met government officials and discussed their issues with Sports Secretary Sujata Chaturvedi, Director General SAI Sandeep Pradhan and Joint Secretary (Sports) Kunal . ,
In the meeting which lasted for about an hour, the wrestlers were asked to end their protest and assured that their grievances would be addressed.
Wrestlers protest: Center will do everything for the benefit of athletes, says Anurag Thakur
However, the wrestlers wanted a concrete and immediate action and decided to continue their protest until the WFI president was removed and the national federation was dissolved along with all the states. Wrestling Union in the country.
Usha said she has full faith in the government and urged all National Sports Federations (NSFs) to cooperate in this matter.
“While this entire episode is a matter of great concern, I feel extremely reassured by the prompt response of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, who have sought clarification from the federation concerned within the next 72 hours.
“I also have full faith in the Government of India, which I am sure will take the right steps in the right direction in this regard. However, as IOA President, I sincerely hope that athletes are not denied their rights under any circumstances Will go.” ,” He said.
Usha said, “IOA urges all National Sports Federations (NSFs) to cooperate fully with all fact-finding agencies in the interest of Indian sports. IOA will also do everything to protect the interest of women athletes.”