In the wake of Sanjay Singh’s election as the new president of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), a move that stirred controversy due to his association with Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, loyalists of the former chief, Olympic bronze medallist Sakshi Malik made a poignant announcement, declaring her retirement from wrestling.
Sakshi speaks in support of women.
Expressing her concerns about the leadership transition, Sakshi Malik emphasized her objection to competing under the presidency of Sanjay Singh, who is closely aligned with Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. She recounted the hardships endured during the protest, stating that she, along with others, spent 40 days on the road to advocate for change within the WFI. In a powerful statement, she asserted that if a business partner and close aide of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh were to assume the role of WFI president, she would bid farewell to wrestling.
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Goodbye to wrestling, Sakshi said
Sakshi Malik’s decision was rooted in her advocacy for women’s representation in leadership roles within the wrestling federation. She argued that having a female president could mitigate instances of harassment, citing the absence of women in decision-making positions historically. She called for the next generation of wrestlers to continue the fight for gender equality in the sport.
Who is Sanjay Singh
In a symbolic gesture of her departure, Sakshi Malik placed her wrestling shoes on the dais during the emotional press conference. Expressing gratitude to the nation for the support that contributed to her achievements, she bid farewell to the sport that had been a significant part of her life.
Allegations raised against Brij Bhushan Singh
Sanjay Singh’s ascent to the presidency, alongside his panel’s victory in 13 out of 15 positions during the delayed elections, triggered discontent among protesting wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat.
Allegations of sexual harassment against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh further fueled the agitation for change within the WFI. Despite the wrestlers’ persistent calls for a new leadership direction, the election outcome left them disillusioned, with a close associate of the previous chief assuming the top position.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Sakshi Malik’s retirement stands as a poignant moment in Indian wrestling, marked by her principled stand against the perceived continuation of the status quo within the WFI leadership. The call for a woman president and the unfulfilled promises made by the authorities added layers to the broader narrative of gender equality and accountability in the realm of Indian wrestling.