Ace Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has disclosed that she is among six women wrestlers who lodged a formal sexual harassment complaint against ex-Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Despite the case being sub-judice, Phogat broke her silence, cautioning the Central Government and Sports Ministry about the upcoming National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda, Brij Bhushan’s stronghold.
In a social media video, Vinesh, a Commonwealth and Asian Games medalist, emphasized concerns about the fairness of the WFI’s National Open Ranking Tournament set for May 12 to 14 in Gonda. She questioned the venue choice, alleging that Brij Bhushan’s influence could compromise the competition’s integrity, affecting referees’ decisions and weigh-in procedures.
Expressing skepticism over the tournament’s transparency, Vinesh highlighted doubts about fair weigh-ins and match outcomes reflecting athletes’ efforts. Despite Brij Bhushan’s removal as WFI chief, Vinesh claimed he still wields control over the federation, with the sports ministry remaining passive. She declared her intent to participate in the ranking competition in Gonda, warning of consequences if any misconduct occurs.
