In a explosive social media video, star Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has broken her silence on a personal bombshell while raising red flags about the upcoming WFI National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda. The 26-year-old, a multiple international medal winner, revealed she is among the six female wrestlers who accused ex-WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment back in 2022.
‘Three years ago, we spoke out against harassment. Six women have given court statements, and our testimonies are still underway. I hadn’t planned to discuss this amid the pending case, but now I must: I am one of those six complainants,’ Phogat announced, her voice steady but resolute.
Shifting focus to the May 12-14 Gonda event, Phogat announced her participation but with a stern caveat. ‘My team and supporters will accompany me. Should any mishap occur, the government and sports ministry will answer for it,’ she warned, pointing to Gonda’s reputation as Brij Bhushan’s turf.
She lambasted the venue choice, predicting rigged officiating and unfair weigh-ins. ‘Referees, points, everything will be manipulated by Brij Bhushan loyalists. True merit won’t prevail; it’s improbable in such an environment,’ Phogat charged, evoking memories of last year’s mass protests.
Phogat highlighted Brij Bhushan’s lingering influence post his WFI ouster, criticizing the ministry’s inaction. This comes as Indian wrestling grapples with governance crises, just months before the Olympics. Her video has sparked widespread support online, with fans and fellow athletes rallying behind her demands for a level playing field.
The wrestling fraternity watches closely as Phogat’s defiance could reshape the sport’s future. Will authorities intervene to ensure fair play, or will Gonda become another flashpoint in this saga? The clock is ticking toward the contentious tournament.
