Wrestlers issue Delhi: BKU stands with wrestlers on the issue. Khap Representative to Meet President Murmu.
The ongoing protest by Indian wrestlers against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). Chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has been gaining a lot of traction in recent days. Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait and his brother Naresh Tikait, head of Balyan khap. Taking up the mantle to stand in solidarity with the protesters.
The Mahapanchayat organized by the khap was attended by leaders from Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Delhi. Addressing the gathering, Rakesh Tikait said that “these girls will not be defeated”. And that “no injustice will be done to them”. He added that a representative of the khap panchayat would meet President Draupadi Murmu and the government to discuss the issue. Naresh Tikait further added that two resolutions were taken at the Mahapanchayat. And more will be discussed and resolved in Kurukshetra on Friday.
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Wrestlers issue: On Tuesday, Olympic medalists Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia, and Asian Games gold medalist Vinesh Phogat had gone to Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar. Along with their supporters to throw their medals in the Ganga. However, they relented after khap and farmer leaders sought five days’ time to address their grievances.
The Delhi Police has filed two FIRs against Singh. While the first FIR relates to allegations by a minor wrestler and has been registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the second is related to outraging modesty. Singh, who has repeatedly denied all charges against him, had said that he would hang himself if a single allegation is proved against him.
wrestlers issue: Union Minister Anurag Thakur has urged the wrestlers to trust the police as the probe against Singh is still underway and to not take any steps that may cause harm to the sport or aspiring wrestlers. He added that everyone is in favor of the sport. And sportspersons and wants an impartial investigation to be done and action to be taken against those found guilty.
The wrestlers’ protest has sparked a nationwide debate on the lack of accountability in sports bodies. And the lack of action against those accused of sexual harassment. With the khap representative scheduled to meet President Murmu, it remains to be seen what action will be taken in this regard.