New Delhi: On Wednesday, a crying Vinesh Phogat accused Wresting Federation of India (WFI) President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexually exploiting women wrestlers for years. This accusation was strongly denied by the sports administrator and BJP MP.
Vinesh, who has been at odds with WFI since the Tokyo Olympic Games, has stated that other coaches at the national camp in Lucknow have also exploited women wrestlers, and that a few women at the camp had approached the wrestlers at the behest of the WFI President.
The 28-year-old clarified that she had never been a victim of such exploitation, but she did say that "one victim" had attended the 'dharna' they started at Jantar Mantar on Wednesday.—Inputs from Agencies

On Wednesday, a crying Vinesh Phogat accused Wresting Federation of India (WFI) President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexually exploiting women wrestlers for years

WFI President sexually exploited women wrestlers, I received death threats: Vinesh Phogat

The Wrestling Federation of India's (WFI) assistant secretary Vinod Tomar was suspended by the Ministry of Sports on Saturday as a result of the grapplers' accusations of sexual harassment and corruption against the head of the sports organisation, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The Open competition, which was scheduled to start in Sharan's UP stronghold of Gonda, was also cancelled by the ministry.
Tomar's presence, according to ministry sources, will "be damaging to the growth of this high-priority field." Additionally, according to sources, the ministry's soon-to-be-established oversight committee would have the authority to decide on every issue relating to Indian wrestling.
Anurag Thakur, the sports minister, announced the government had decided to create an oversight committee to look into the allegations made against Sharan and his body by some of the top wrestlers in the nation, including Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and Ravi Dahiya, late on Friday night after a lengthy meeting.

The Wrestling Federation of India's (WFI) assistant secretary Vinod Tomar was suspended by the Ministry of Sports on Saturday as a result of the grapplers' accusations of sexual harassment and corruption against the head of the sports organisation, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The Open competition, which was scheduled to start in Sharan's UP stronghold of Gonda, was also cancelled by the ministry.

WFI assistant secretary Vinod Tomar Fired by Sports Ministry

The Sports Ministry has suspended WFI assistant secretary Vinod Tomar. Some of the country's top wrestlers have levelled allegations of sexual harassment and corruption against the sports body's chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

Soumitra Bose
New Delhi (The Hawk): Anurag Thakur truly is Mr Trouble Shooter extraordinaire --- proved again-n-again --- evincing it flagrantly: The easiest way he coolly-cum-calmly ensured protesting / adamant / recalcitrant / allegations-hurling (internatioal, national) award winning wrestlers relent / condescend from their irrevocable stand of "immediate dismissal of duly elected WFI President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, MP, + his office bearers due to sexual charges along with gross corruption charges or else they would right away bid adieu to wrestling" is immensely praise worthy, openly point out officers in the concerned central sports ministry. According to them, if the protesting wrestlers were not duly mollified up to their "full satisfaction" by Thakur, they would have continued with their irretrievable stir with growing threat of "exposing many sex, financial scandals of the WFI President, his office bearers which when spilled in to the open would openly denigrate the ruling party BJP, the Government etc". Acting as virtuoso Mr Trouble Shooter in such a sensitive scenario, Anurag Thakur patiently conversed with the proterting wrestlers, mollified them successfully. Thereafter they withdrew their sit-in, stir. Kudos to Mr Trouble Shooter and his "successful +ve machinations, manouv-rings" enabling the Government save its face from burning, agree all with out a slightest hiccup. Truly, true Mr Trouble Shooter Anurag Thakur, agree observers.

 Anurag Thakur truly is Mr Trouble Shooter extraordinaire --- proved again-n-again --- evincing it flagrantly: The easiest way he coolly-cum-calmly ensured protesting / adamant / recalcitrant / allegations-hurling (internatioal, national) 

Mr Trouble Shooter

New Delhi: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, a representative for the Congress party, met with the striking wrestlers at Jantar Mantar on Saturday and voiced her support for them. She also accused the government of "protecting" WFI chairman Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who is facing allegations of sexual harassment claim made by female grapplers.
The Congress general secretary also called for the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief's ouster from the post so that he is unable to "exert pressure" on the wrestlers and hamper their careers.
Priyanka Gandhi went to Jantar Mantar in the morning and talked to the wrestlers. Later that day, she was going to take part in a number of election campaign events in Karnataka.—Inputs from Agencies

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, a representative for the Congress party, met with the striking wrestlers at Jantar Mantar on Saturday and voiced her support for them

Priyanka meets protesting wrestlers at Jantar Mantar, criticises government of 'protecting' WFI chief Brij Bhushan

New Delhi: This past Saturday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal met with protesting wrestlers at Jantar Mantar in opposition to Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
Wrestlers have been on strike for over a week, asking that Singh, a BJP MP, be held accountable for sexual harassment claims made by seven female athletes. Friday saw two formal complaints filed with the Delhi Police Department against the WFI director.
Kejriwal said individuals who perpetrate such wrongs against women "should be hanged," showing support for the protesting wrestlers.—Inputs from Agencies

This past Saturday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal met with protesting wrestlers at Jantar Mantar in opposition to Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

They must get justice: Kejriwal extends support to protesting wrestlers

New Delhi: The Delhi Police are yet to interrogate Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the chief of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), in connection with the two FIRs registered against him on April 21, pertaining to serious allegations, including violations under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
As per sources, the police are yet to summon Singh, despite the FIRs filed 14 days ago. "We have recorded the statements of seven wrestlers and Singh will be served summons soon," said a source. According to police, one of the cases against him was registered under IPC sections 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 354A (sexual harassment), and 354D (stalking), while the other was registered under section 10 of the POCSO Act.
What law says?
While demands for the arrest of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the chief of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), persist due to three non-bailable and "serious" offences, legal provisions and Supreme Court rulings provide clarity on the matter. As per section 41A of IPC and various judgments of the apex court, the arrest of an accused is not obligatory if the maximum punishment prescribed for the offence is less than seven years of imprisonment. Supreme Court lawyer Vineet Jindal said that the decision to make an arrest lies solely with the police authorities. However, in cases involving serious offences, it is generally considered the norm to make an arrest. "Notably, offences under the POCSO Act are classified as non-bailable. Therefore, if there is a legitimate investigative requirement, the likelihood of an arrest occurring as a consequential action is high," said Jindal.
Another Supreme Court lawyer, Rudra Vikram Singh said that since there is delay in arresting Singh, it might be due to primary investigation in the matter.
"Also since the offences under POCSO Act and other acts allegedly committed entail a sentence up to seven years hence in these circumstances, the investigating officer might follow the compliance of provisions of Section 41 and Section 41-A of the CrPC as provided by Supreme Court in Amresh Kumar vs State of Bihar. If Singh does not cooperate with the 'Investigating Officer' (IO) in the probe, police can arrest him," Singh added.
What wrestlers demand?
Earlier, after the Supreme Court closed the proceedings on a plea by three women wrestlers, who have levelled sexual harassment allegations against Brij Bhushan, Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik said, "it's okay", and that they will decide the future course of action after consulting with seniors.
"It is okay, we respect the Supreme Court. Their job is only to register the FIR. No court can ask anyone to arrest. We are sitting firm on our protest and it will go on till we get justice," the 30-year-old wrestler told IANS.
"First the statements of our girls should be recorded before the magistrate under 164 CrPC. That is not done yet. We are waiting for it, after that we will see what needs to be done in this regard."
—IANS

The Delhi Police are yet to interrogate Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the chief of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), in connection

Sexual Harassment Case: Wfi Chief Brij Bhushan Yet To Be Questioned

Lucknow: Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Singh, accused of sexual harassment and intimidation by women wrestlers, has said that he would "hang himself if even a single allegation against him was proved".
In a video message released on Sunday, Singh said, "I will hang myself even if a single allegation against me is proved. The matter is with the Delhi Police, so I won't be able to speak much in detail on the matter. I have been saying this from the first day if these wrestlers have any video evidence against me. You should ask anyone who is associated with wrestling. Is Brij Bhushan Ravana?" Singh said that he was recording the video message on the way to his home in Gonda from Delhi. He further said, "Except these wrestlers (who are protesting), ask anyone if I have done anything wrong. I have given 11 years of my life to wrestling, to this country." The wrestlers have alleged that there has been a delay from the government in releasing the report of the committee that was formed to look into the allegations against Brij Bhushan Singh.
The protesting wrestlers also want the WFI chief to be stripped of his portfolio. Two FIRs have been lodged against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh at the Connaught Place Police Station. The first FIR pertains to allegations levelled by a minor victim and is registered under the POCSO Act, along with relevant IPC sections concerning outraging of modesty, etc. The Supreme Court, while hearing an urgent plea on the matter, concluded that filing of FIRs served the purpose of the plea filed by the protesting grapplers. The court also rejected petitioner's plea for a court-monitored probe.
—IANS

 Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Singh, accused of sexual harassment and intimidation by women wrestlers, has said

I Will Hang Myself If Allegations Proved: Brij Bhushan

New Delhi: A number of khap panchayats and the protesting wrestlers on Sunday issued a 10-day ultimatum to the Central government, demanding action be taken against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh regarding the allegations of sexual harassment against him. Representatives of around 250 khaps from Haryana, Rajasthan, and western Uttar Pradesh, along with hundreds of farmers, gathered at Jantar Mantar in support of the protesting wrestlers.
"In today's (Sunday's) meeting between khaps, wrestlers and farmers unions, we have given 10 days time to take action against Singh and if this does not happen, then we will meet again and the protest will be on a higher scale," said Surendra Solanki, the President of Palam khap in Delhi, told IANS. The wrestlers will spearhead the protest while receiving support from the khaps and farmers' unions, he said.
"Every day, one khap and its members will participate in a peaceful sit-in protest at Jantar Mantar. The course of action will be determined by the wrestlers, and we will follow their instructions," said Solanki.
Meanwhile, top Indian wrestlers like Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat will be taking out the candle march at 7 p.m to further strengthen their protest. The ongoing protest of wrestlers comes after no action on their grievances following an initial protest in January this year to press on for action against Singh.
Last week, the Delhi Police filed two FIRs after the Supreme Court took up the issue.
—IANS

A number of khap panchayats and the protesting wrestlers on Sunday issued a 10-day ultimatum to the Central government, demanding 

Wrestlers vs WFI Chief: Khap Panchayats, Wrestlers Issue 10-day Ultimatum To Centre

New Delhi: A court here on Wednesday sought from the Delhi Police a status report pertaining to the sexual harassment case against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

Since April 23, prominent Indian wrestlers such as Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat, who have achieved Olympic and World Championships recognition, have been staging a protest at Jantar Mantar against WFI chief.

Farmers have also extended their support to wrestlers and had arrived from Haryana and Punjab on Monday to join the wrestlers' protest.

During the hearing, the judge issued notice to Police on protesting wrestlers' plea seeking monitoring of the investigation and recording of the statement of the alleged victims before the court.

The court then directed the police to file the report by May 12, also the next date of hearing.

On Tuesday, Delhi Commission for Women also issued summons to Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Pranav Tayal for failing to arrest the accused in the matter of sexual harassment with women wrestlers.

The women wrestlers had approached the Supreme Court and two FIRs were registered on April 28, one under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act for allegedly sexually harassing a minor girl and another for sexual harassment of other complainants. IANS

A court here on Wednesday sought from the Delhi Police a status report pertaining to the sexual harassment case against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

Court seeks Delhi Police's status report on sexual harassment case against WFI chief

A court here on Wednesday sought from the Delhi Police a status report pertaining to the sexual harassment case against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.


New Delhi: Rajasthan Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Friday met the protesting wrestlers at the Jantar Mantar, and questioned the delay in justice to those who have made the country proud.

Pilot arrived at Jantar Mantar and spoke to wrestlers at length.

Speaking to the media after meeting the protesting wrestlers, Pilot said, "For the last 26 days our wrestlers have been sitting in protest to share their pain. Everyone supports them, but the justice which should have been given to them is being delayed."

Targeting the government, Pilot said, "Why is there delay in justice to those who made us proud? Administration and police must act swiftly."

He said that if the youth, farmers and wrestlers are not happy then the country can't prosper.

"The pain and issues of wrestlers need to be heard and addressed and the government and administration must act swiftly on the grievances of protesting wrestlers and justice should be delivered," he demanded.

He also pointed out that several people are coming to support the wrestlers here, but it is sad that the wrestlers are yet to get justice despite sitting here for the last several days.

"Action must be taken on their complaint so that the wrestlers are convinced of the action," the Congress leader said.

To another question about the remarks of WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh that medals can be bought for Rs 15, Pilot said, "For the last 26 days wrestlers are protesting and if they would have got timely justice then there was no need for them to sit here. They are sitting here in this heat as no action has been taken."

The wrestlers are protesting at Jantar Mantar for last 26 days and have accused Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment. IANS

Rajasthan Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Friday met the protesting wrestlers at the Jantar Mantar, and questioned the delay in justice to those who have made the country proud.

Why is there delay in justice to wrestlers: Sachin Pilot

Rajasthan Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Friday met the protesting wrestlers at the Jantar Mantar, and questioned the delay in justice to those who have made the country proud.


New Delhi: Indian ace grappler Vinesh Phogat on Thursday alleged that the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) Chief Brij Bhushan Singh is being shielded by the government. Speaking to ANI, Vinesh asserted that their fight is against Brij Bhushan and if he wasn't being protected by the government, he would have been behind bars by now. "Our fight is against brij bhushan but definitely he is getting protection from the government otherwise he would have been behind the jail," she said. Vinesh also claimed that the WFI chief has influence and money power. "He has a lot of money he can influence everyone by giving them money if he stays out he will influence everyone and he will influence the police as well. If he goes to jail his power will be neutralized," Phogat added. While talking about the future of the protest she asserted that the wrestlers will continue to protest until Brij Bhushan is sent to jail. "The protest will go on until Brij Bhushan is arrested and the future of wrestling is secured," Phogat concluded. Protesting wrestlers Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat and others marched from Jantar Mantar to Bangla Sahib Gurudwara in New Delhi on their 25th day of protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.  Grapplers including Punia, Sakshi, Vinesh and others joined the march demanding the arrest of the WFI chief charged with sexual harassment of athletes. "We will take this protest to the international level. We will write letters to international Olympians and ask them to write letters in our support," Vinesh said on Monday to mediapersons. Rio Olympic medal winner Sakshi Malik also stressed this point and said that she feels their protest is being confined to Jantar Mantar. "We will step outside of Jantar Mantar. We feel that our protest is being confined. We want our protest to reach everybody because this is a fight for the women of our country," Sakshi Malik told the media. On the other side, Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur told the reporters in Hamirpur on Monday, "The committee was formed, and their concerns were also heard. An ad-hoc committee has been formed to start the day-to-day working of the Wrestling Federation by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). Trials have also started for athletes. "He added, "Supreme Court has given its judgement. Delhi Police has also registered an FIR and is recording statements. The magistrate is also registering statements. They must have faith in our law and order and end their protest." Earlier on April 24, The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) will be forming an ad-hoc committee to conduct the elections for the Executive Committee of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) within 45 days of its formation, to manage day-to-day affairs of the body, including the selection of athletes and making entries for the participation of players in international events. This committee will be functioning for an interim period till a new Executive Committee takes charge. Delhi Police on Friday filed a status report on the application moved by woman wrestlers in an alleged offence of sexual offence levelled against WFI Chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The court was also informed that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to investigate the matter. (ANI)

Indian ace grappler Vinesh Phogat on Thursday alleged that the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) 

"Brij Bhushan Singh getting government's protection": Wrestler Vinesh Phogat

'Brij Bhushan Singh getting government's protection': Wrestler Vinesh Phogat

Gonda: Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh said on Monday that 'akhadas' (traditional Indian gymnasiums) in India are decreasing and parents are pulling away their children, especially girls from the sport of wrestling. He was speaking to the media in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh on Monday. "Akadhas are getting lesser and parents are stopping their kids from playing, especially girls. There is sadness among wrestlers about the sport which has given us many Olympic medals. The protest should get over, so that wrestling and these children does not continue to face damage," Brij Bhushan said to the media. Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who is facing sexual harassment allegations, on Sunday, said he is ready to undergo a polygraph test if the same is conducted on star wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia. "I am ready for a narco test, polygraph test or lie detector test if the same test of wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia is also conducted along with his test," tweeted Brij Bhushan. Earlier on Sunday, the BJP MP said he wanted to retire from politics in 2014 but continued after the insistence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. BJP MP from Kaiserganj after reaching Gonda from Delhi, has been meeting people by participating in various programmes in his Lok Sabha constituency. He has been seeking people's support for Chetna Maha rally to be held in Ayodhya on June 5.  "I wanted to retire from politics in 2014 itself. But Amit Shah during the 2014 Lok Sabha elections did not allow me to do that," he said On the allegations levelled by the wrestlers, Brij Bhushan said that "if someone decided to speak lies then they can do." Several ace grapplers including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshee Mallik have been protesting at the Jantar Mantar accusing the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment and demanding his arrest. On May 19, the wrestlers had marched from Jantar Mantar to Bangla Sahib Gurudwara in New Delhi on their 25th day of protest against Brij Bhushan. Grapplers including Punia, Sakshi, Vinesh and others joined the march demanding the arrest of the WFI chief charged with sexual harassment of athletes. The protestors have been demanding the registration of an FIR against the WFI chief and his arrest into the allegations of sexual harassment. Two separate FIRs were registered on April 28 following the Supreme Court's notice to Delhi Police into the plea filed by the wrestlers. Earlier on April 24, The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) will be forming an ad-hoc committee to conduct the elections for the Executive Committee of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) within 45 days of its formation, to manage day-to-day affairs of the body, including the selection of athletes and making entries for the participation of players in international events. This committee will be functioning for an interim period till a new Executive Committee takes charge. Delhi Police has filed a status report on the application moved by woman wrestlers in an alleged offence of sexual offence levelled against WFI chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The court was also informed that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to investigate the matter. (ANI)

Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh said on Monday that 'akhadas'

'Akadhas are decreasing....': WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over women wrestlers protesting against sexual harassment allegations

Ayodhya: Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Singh said that laws related to sexual harassment are flawed and are being misused against him.
Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has been accused of sexually harassing young athletes, including a minor. Thousands of supporters of the wrestlers on Tuesday held a candlelight protest from Jantar Mantar to India Gate under heavy security marking a month of wrestlers' agitation against Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
"There are some flaws in the law. These laws are being misused. It is not only in my case. You could get someone from your neighbourhood who is facing these laws. The law was made with good intentions, but it is being misused by people as a weapon against the ones they have problems with of any kind," Brij Bhushan told reporters in Ayodhya on Friday.
He also said that when the protest first started, the key demand of the wrestlers was to have him step down from his position of WFI chief by 4 PM that day.
"But now, the protest is also against PM Modi, Yogi (Adityanath). Congress, Aam Aadmi Party and 'tukde tukde gang' have joined it. Protests reached Punjab and from there, Canada. Do protests against me in Canada make any sense?" he added. "They should have gone back home after Delhi Police registered an FIR. This is no longer their (wrestlers') agitation. Some more people are involved and are misguiding wrestlers. Like Bajrang Punia had said that if he knows how to bow his head down to someone, he knows how to behead someone. What kind of language is this? Whose head do you want to cut? You used to respect Brij Bhushan a while back, used to touch his feet and now look at his language," he added.
Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat said that the wrestlers have decided to hold a women's Maha Panchayat in front of the new Parliament building on May 28.
"We have decided to hold a peaceful women's Maha Panchayat in front of the new Parliament building on May 28," she said. Several ace grapplers including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshee Mallik have been protesting at the Jantar Mantar accusing the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment and demanding his arrest.
On May 19, the wrestlers marched from Jantar Mantar to Bangla Sahib Gurudwara in New Delhi on their 25th day of protest against Brij Bhushan.
Grapplers including Punia, Sakshi, Vinesh and others joined the march demanding the arrest of the WFI chief charged with sexual harassment of athletes.
Two separate FIRs were registered on April 28 following the Supreme Court's notice to Delhi Police into the plea filed by the wrestlers.
Earlier on April 24, The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) will be forming an ad-hoc committee to conduct the elections for the Executive Committee of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) within 45 days of its formation, to manage day-to-day affairs of the body, including the selection of athletes and making entries for the participation of players in international events. This committee will be functioning for an interim period till a new Executive Committee takes charge.
Delhi Police has filed a status report on the application moved by woman wrestlers in an alleged offence of sexual offence levelled against WFI chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
The court was also informed that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to investigate the matter.
Earlier this year, prominent wrestlers came forward to lead a protest against the WFI chief, following which the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Thakur, announced the formation of an 'oversight committee' to probe allegations against the WFI, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and some coaches. Wrestling Federation of India Assistant Secretary Vinod Tomar is also named as an accused in the FIR.
The movement has gained support from opposition parties and farmer unions, with many people voicing their concerns about the alleged sexual harassment. —ANI

Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Singh said that laws related to sexual harassment 

'These Laws Are Being Misused, There Are Some Flaws In Them,' Says Brij Bhushan On Sexual Harassment Charges Against Him

Haridwar: Olympic medalist wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik alongwith Vinesh Phogat, who have accused the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment and are demanding his arrest, reached Uttarakhand's Haridwar to immerse their all medals including Olympic medals in the river Ganga on Tuesday evening, as a mark of their protest.
A sizable crowd is present as the wrestlers were seen huddled together to immerse their medals which they have achieved after much hard work.
Women wrestlers were sitting on the ground and were emotional.
Earlier, the wrestlers took to Twitter and shared a post about the chain of events that have unfolded in recent days and the way authorities handled the situation.
The protesting wrestlers said that they will visit Haridwar and throw their medals in the Ganga at 6 pm on Tuesday.
They said they will sit on a hunger strike at India Gate after throwing their medals.
In their post, the wrestlers said, "You saw everything that happened on May 28, how police treated us and the way they arrested us. We were protesting peacefully, our place has been taken away and the next day serious cases and FIR were filed against us. Have the wrestlers committed any crime by demanding justice for the sexual harassment that happened to them? The police and the system are treating us like criminals, while the oppressor is taking jibe moving freely. He is even openly talking about changing the POSCO Act."
Several ace grapplers including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik have been protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh accusing him of sexual harassment and demanding his arrest. They also went on to question the fact that how the women wrestlers had to hide for the entire day.
"Yesterday, many of our women wrestlers were hiding in the fields. The system should arrest the oppressor but it is engaged in breaking and intimidating the victim women to end their protest," the grapplers said.They further said that these medals are left with no meaning. "It is not less than death for us thinking of returning medals but how can we live compromising our self-respect? We don't need these medals anymore. If we speak against exploitation, they prepare to put us in jail," the wrestlers said.
"We are going to shed these medals in the Ganga. Our medals which we earned after hard work are as sacred as River Ganga. These medals are sacred for the entire country and the right place to keep the sacred medal can be holy Ganga and not our unholy system which masquerades us and stands with our oppressor after taking advantage of us. The medal is our life, our soul. We will sit on hunger strike at India gate till death," the wrestlers added.
On Sunday, India's Olympic medallist wrestlers Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia along with Vinesh Phogat and Sangeeta Phogat were detained by Delhi Police while attempting to march to the new Parliament building where they planned to stage a demonstration.FIR has been filed under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 147, 149, 186, 188, 332, 353, Section 3 of the PDPP Act, said Delhi Police. —ANI

Olympic medalist wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik alongwith Vinesh Phogat, who have accused the WFI chief 

Protesting Wrestlers Reach Haridwar To Immerse Their Medals In Ganga

New Delhi: Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) will hold a protest on June 1 in several parts of the country, demanding the arrest of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
On Monday, IANS had reported that the protest is likely to be shifted to Delhi borders like how farmers' agitation was held as wrestlers were in talks with farmers' unions and khaps. The move came after the Delhi Police cleared all signs of the wrestlers' month-long protest, taking away all items that the grapplers had brought to Jantar Mantar to protest against the WFI chief over sexual misconduct allegations.
On Tuesday a statement from Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) further strengthened the report, and it stated that Bajrang Punia attended the meeting organised by SKM.
"Bajrang Punia, representative of the Wrestlers' Action Committee, was a special invitee in the meeting organised by SKM. Bajrang said that the working committee of wrestlers will fully support the decisions of SKM in support of their struggle and will make all efforts to continue their fight for justice till the arrest of WFI chief, accused of sexual harassment of women wrestlers.
"It was assured in the meeting that SKM would support and actively participate in the struggle of the wrestlers till their victory. After discussion in the meeting, further course of action was decided."
SKM will coordinate with all other sections including trade unions, women, youth, students and businessmen, intellectuals and social movements to make this action massive and successful, it said.
"On June 5, SKM plans to expose Brij Bhushan criminal conduct so far and burn his effigy at village and town level across India. SKM will call a meeting of the National Council in New Delhi immediately after that and decide the future course of action to continue the struggle," the statement read.
The protesting wrestlers have now reached their respective homes and are in talks with each other through phones and discussing further plans.—IANS

Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) will hold a protest on June 1 in several parts of the country

Sanyukt Kisan Morcha To Hold Protest Against Brij In Several Parts Of Country On June 1

Ayodhya(UP): A gathering in support of Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who has been accused of sexually assaulting women grapplers, has been scheduled for next week.
The POCSO Act, which protects minors from sexual offences, has "many loopholes and defective clauses," according to the seers, who have promised to demonstrate against it.
Singh, a BJP MP and the head of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), has been accused of sexual harassment by several of the country's top wrestlers, including Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, and Bajrang Punia.—Inputs from Agencies

A gathering in support of Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who has been accused of sexually assaulting women grapplers, has been scheduled for next week.

Ayodhya seers to hold rally in support of WFI chief

New Delhi: Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) will hold a protest on June 1 in several parts of the country, demanding the arrest of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
On Monday, IANS had reported that the protest is likely to be shifted to Delhi borders like how farmers' agitation was held as wrestlers were in talks with farmers' unions and khaps. The move came after the Delhi Police cleared all signs of the wrestlers' month-long protest, taking away all items that the grapplers had brought to Jantar Mantar to protest against the WFI chief over sexual misconduct allegations.
On Tuesday a statement from Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) further strengthened the report, and it stated that Bajrang Punia attended the meeting organised by SKM.
"Bajrang Punia, representative of the Wrestlers' Action Committee, was a special invitee in the meeting organised by SKM. Bajrang said that the working committee of wrestlers will fully support the decisions of SKM in support of their struggle and will make all efforts to continue their fight for justice till the arrest of WFI chief, accused of sexual harassment of women wrestlers.
"It was assured in the meeting that SKM would support and actively participate in the struggle of the wrestlers till their victory. After discussion in the meeting, further course of action was decided."
SKM will coordinate with all other sections including trade unions, women, youth, students and businessmen, intellectuals and social movements to make this action massive and successful, it said.
"On June 5, SKM plans to expose Brij Bhushan criminal conduct so far and burn his effigy at village and town level across India. SKM will call a meeting of the National Council in New Delhi immediately after that and decide the future course of action to continue the struggle," the statement read.
The protesting wrestlers have now reached their respective homes and are in talks with each other through phones and discussing further plans.
—IANS

 Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) will hold a protest on June 1 in several parts of the country, demanding the arrest 

Barabanki: Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh on Wednesday responded to the protesting wrestlers' allegations, and said that he would "hang" himself if allegations against him are proven.
"If a single allegation against me is proven, I will hang myself," the WFI chief said while addressing a public rally in UP's Barabanki.
Singh further took a jibe at wrestlers for announcing to immerse their medals in Ganga as a mark of their protest against him. "It's been four months and they want me to be hanged. The government is not hanging me that's why they gathered at Haridwar on Tuesday and threatened to immerse their medals in the Ganga. This will not bring the sentence that they want for me, it is all emotional drama," he said.
"If you (wrestlers) have any evidence, present it in the Court and I am ready to accept any punishment," Singh said.
"Delhi police is investigating the matter. I would be arrested if there's any truth to the charges (levelled by the wrestlers)," he added.
Earlier in the day, Delhi Police sources said that till now no supportive evidence has been found to arrest the WFI president, in connection with the allegations levelled by wrestlers against him. According to top sources, Delhi police will be filing its final report on the matter within 15 days. "Within 15 days we will be filing our report in the court. It could be in the form of a charge sheet or final report," they said. Delhi police sources further said that there is no supportive evidence to prove the wrestlers' claim. "Neither he is influencing the witness nor he is destroying the evidence," they added.
Olympians Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik and Vinesh Phogat, who have been demanding the removal and arrest of the WFI president over allegations of sexual harassment, reached Haridwar earlier on Tuesday to immerse their medals in the Ganges.
The wrestlers later issued a five-day ultimatum to the authorities to act against the WFI chief. Several ace grapplers including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik have been protesting against the WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh accusing him of sexual harassment and demanding his arrest. They also went on to question the fact that how the women wrestlers had to hide for the entire day. —ANI

Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh on Wednesday

'I Will Hang Myself If Proven Guilty,' WFI Chief Brij Bhushan Singh Amid Wrestlers' Protest

Gonda: Former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Singh on Thursday alleged that the protesting wrestlers are changing their "demands and language" continuously and added that he still stands by his statement that he will hang himself if even one of the allegation against him is proven to be true.
Several ace grapplers including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik have been protesting against the WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh accusing him of sexual harassment and demanding his arrest
"...First they (protesting wrestlers) had some other demand and later they demanded something else. They are changing their demands and language continuously. I had said that if even one case against me gets proven, I will hang myself...I stand by my statement..," said Brij Bhushan to media in Gonda.
Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) chairperson Swati Maliwal on Wednesday issued a summon to the Deputy Commissioner of Police, New Delhi in a case pertaining to the wrestlers-WFI case where an identity of a minor wrestler who has accused Brij Bhushan of harassing her was revealed on social media.
In the letter to DCP, New Delhi, DCP Chairperson Maliwal wrote, "Now, a video is being circulated on social media wherein a person claiming to be the uncle of the minor survivor has revealed the identity of the survivor which is a criminal offence as per the POCSO Act."
She further stated that the accused Brij Bhushan is highly influential and has not been arrested to date.
"The accused in the matter is highly influential and has not been arrested to date. The Hon'ble Supreme Court, considering the sensitivity of the case, and the direct threat to the survivors, especially the minor one, had directed the police to provide them security," summon read.
The summon further pointed out that in such a scenario, the act of revealing the minor survivor's identity has to be dealt with seriously.
In this regard, DCW chief Swati Maliwal has issued a summon to the Deputy Commissioner of Police of New Delhi District seeking registration of an FIR in the matter. The Commission has asked Delhi Police to provide a copy of the FIR along with details of the accused arrested in the matter.
The Commission has also asked Delhi Police to inform the reasons for not arresting the main accused Brij Bhushan Singh to date. Further, the Commission has asked Delhi Police to provide a copy of the enquiry report investigating whether the accused Brij Bhushan Singh is in any way linked to the act of revealing the identity of a minor survivor.
DCW Chief has asked DCP, New Delhi to appear before the Commission on June 2 along with an action taken report on the matter.
Wrestlers protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India's president Brij Bhushan Singh should wait for the investigation to be completed, Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur said on Wednesday, asking the grapplers to trust the Delhi Police and the Supreme Court of India.
Union Minister also said that while the investigation is being done, wrestlers should not do anything which harms the sport and its players.
"The wrestlers should wait for Delhi Police to conclude their investigation and not take any steps that may cause harm to the sport or aspiring wrestlers. They should trust the police, SC and the ministry while the investigation is being carried out. We all are in favour of the sport and sportspersons and want the impartial investigation to be done and action to be taken against the ones found guilty," said the minister.
Notably, the Leftist student organisations, the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) and the Students Federation of India (SFI), the students' wing of the CPI(M), have jointly declared a nationwide protest from June 4 in support of the wrestlers' protest.
"DYFI and SFI demanded the immediate arrest of Brij Bhushan and to withdraw all false cases against the wrestlers immediately. Through this protest, we demand that the Prime minister should apologize for the police violence unleashed upon wrestlers," said AA Rahim, national president of DYFI, the youth wing of the Communist Party of India (Marxist).
On Tuesday, Olympic medalist wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik alongwith Vinesh Phogat reached Uttarakhand's Haridwar to immerse their all medals including Olympic ones in the river Ganga, as a mark of their protest.
But farmer leader Naresh Tikait intervened and stopped protesting wrestlers from immersing their medals in the Ganga and said that there would be a Khap meeting over the issue.
The wrestlers later issued a five-day ultimatum to the authorities to act against the WFI chief.
On Sunday, India's Olympic medallist wrestlers Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia along with Vinesh Phogat and Sangeeta Phogat were detained by Delhi Police while attempting to march to the new Parliament building where they planned to stage a demonstration. FIR has been filed under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 147, 149, 186, 188, 332, 353, Section 3 of the PDPP Act, said Delhi Police.
Earlier in the day, Delhi Police sources said that till now no supportive evidence has been found to arrest the WFI president in connection with the allegations levelled by wrestlers against him.
According to top sources, Delhi police will be filing its final report on the matter within 15 days. "Within 15 days we will be filing our report in the court. It could be in the form of a charge sheet or final report," they said.
"Neither he (WFI Chief) is influencing the witness nor he is destroying the evidence," they added.
Amid the continuing protest against Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the
United World Wrestling (UWW) on Tuesday issued a statement condemning the detention of the wrestlers on Sunday.
UWW has also expressed "disappointment over the lack of results of the investigations" against the WFI chief and threatened to suspend the federation if WFI elections are not held within 45 days.
"UWW firmly condemns the treatment and detention of the wrestlers. It expresses its disappointment over the lack of results of the investigations so far. UWW urges the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the allegations," the world wrestling body said in a statement.
"UWW will request further information about the next elective general assembly from the IOA and the Ad-hoc Committee of the WFI. The 45-day deadline that was initially set to hold this elective assembly shall be respected. Failing to do so may lead UWW to suspend the federation, thereby forcing the athletes to compete under a neutral flag. It is reminded that UWW already took a measure in this situation by reallocating the Asian Championship planned in New Delhi earlier this year," it added.
Earlier, on April 24, the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) will form an ad hoc committee to conduct the elections to the Executive Committee of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) within 45 days of its formation, to manage day-to-day affairs of the body, including the selection of athletes and making entries for the participation of players in international events. This committee will be functioning for an interim period till a new Executive Committee takes charge.
After prominent wrestlers came forward with allegations of sexual harassment against the WFI chief, earlier this year, Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur announced the formation of an oversight committee to probe allegations charges against him and some coaches.
Wrestling Federation of India assistant secretary Vinod Tomar is also named as an accused in the FIR filed in the matter.The movement has gained traction, with leading Opposition leaders also supporting the grapplers. —ANI

 Former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Singh on Thursday alleged that the protesting wrestlers

'Will Hang Myself If Proven Guilty...Still Stand By My Statement': Former WFI Chief Brij Bhushan Singh

Srinagar: On Thursday, BJP MP Maneka Gandhi said she has faith that the protesting wrestlers, who are calling for the arrest of stepping down WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexual harassment claims, will be vindicated.
Gandhi came to this city to take part in the "Let's Co-exist" event, which honoured the idea that human beings may coexist and even thrive in the same world.
When asked by reporters where she stood on the matter of the wrestlers, the member of Lok Sabha said, "I am sure that they will get justice at the end of it."—Inputs from Agencies

On Thursday, BJP MP Maneka Gandhi said she has faith that the protesting wrestlers, who are calling for the arrest of stepping down WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexual harassment claims, will be vindicated.

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