Wrestlers Protest BJP’s Decision to Field Son of Ex-WFI Chief
The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) decision to field Karan Bhushan Singh, the son of former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Singh, has drawn criticism from wrestlers who protested against the ex-WFI president last year. The wrestlers have accused Brij Bhushan of sexual harassment and have demanded his arrest.
Sakshi Malik, a Rio Olympics bronze medalist, expressed disappointment over the BJP’s decision. She said that the move has broken the spirits of crores of Indian daughters. Sakshee Malikkh, who quit wrestling after Brij Bhushan’s close aide won the WFI elections, also criticized the BJP. She accused the party of using Lord Ram’s name for votes.
Bajrang Punia, a key protestor and Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist, called the BJP’s decision a stab in the back. He questioned the government’s motives and asked if the wrestlers’ fight for justice had been in vain.
The Delhi Police registered a case against Brij Bhushan in June 2023 under sections 354, 354D, and 345A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for stalking and sexual harassment. The case is being heard in Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court, with the next hearing scheduled for May 7.
The wrestlers have vowed to continue their fight for justice and have called on the government to take action against Brij Bhushan. They have also demanded an independent inquiry into the allegations against him.
