Wrestlers stage candle march to India Gate, plan women-led mahapanchayat. Protests against Wrestling Federation chief continue, demanding arrest for alleged sexual harassment.
In a month-long protest against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president and BJP MP Brijbhushan Sharan Singh, top wrestlers Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Bajrang Punia led a candlelight march to New Delhi ‘s India Gate on Tuesday. The wrestlers, supported by thousands of vocal protesters, demanded Singh’s arrest over allegations of sexual harassment and exploitation of women wrestlers. The peaceful demonstration marked a significant milestone in their ongoing fight for justice. The wrestlers also announced plans for a ‘mahila mahapanchayat’ under the leadership of women and youth on May 28, where crucial decisions regarding their future course of action will be made.
Demand for Justice and Arrest of Brijbhushan Singh
Bajrang Punia, speaking to reporters, expressed his satisfaction with the turnout and the peaceful nature of the protest, stating, “We are happy and proud that we were able to take out this procession in a fully peaceful manner, marching from Jantar Mantar to India Gate with so many supporters without any problem. The fight for the integrity and respect of women will continue on May 28 as well.”
Vinesh Phogat, speaking to the media at Jantar Mantar, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received during the candlelight vigil. She highlighted the participation of various organisations and individuals across the country, including farm unions, women’s organisations, and students, all of whom have provided strength and encouragement to the protesters. She also voiced her hope for justice to be served swiftly, emphasising the need for action following a month-long sit-in protest.
Furthermore, the wrestlers are eager to engage students and young people in their cause. Sakshi Malik’s recent participation in a candlelight vigil at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) underscored the importance of youth support. The wrestlers believe that the movement should reach a wider audience and transcend beyond their immediate circle. Bajrang Punia emphasised the significance of involving the country’s youth, stating, “This movement is not limited to wrestlers; it’s a fight for all women in India.” The wrestlers also sought the support of various khap and farm leaders while assuring that the khap panchayats would provide support in the background. They also announced that any significant decisions on the protest would be made after May 28.
Singh’s Controversial Statements and Legal Proceedings
Singh, who holds the position of BJP MP, equated Vinesh Phogat’s role to that of Manthara from the Hindu epic Ramayana during a public meeting. Singh has been accused of sexually harassing several women wrestlers, and two FIRs have been registered against him. Singh offered to undergo a lie-detector narco analysis test, and in response, Punia and Phogat stated their willingness to take the test, demanding that it be conducted under the supervision of the Supreme Court and broadcasted live on television.
Concerns about Impartial Investigation
Due to Singh’s political background, the protesting wrestlers have expressed apprehensions about the impartiality of the ongoing police investigation. The Delhi Police has submitted a status report under sealed cover, informing the court about the formation of a Special Investigative Team (SIT) to look into the allegations. The next hearing is scheduled for May 27.
