Protesting wrestlers observe ‘black day’, Bajrang Punia alleges of tracking of phone numbers
2 min read . Updated: 12 May 2023, 05:46 AM IST
PremiumProtesting wrestlers observed black day, demanding action in the case of sexual harassment charges against WFI chief Brij Bhushan
To mark their protest against the leniency in investigation against Wresting Federation of India (WFI) chief, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, protesting grapplers observed “black day" on Thursday. The eminent sportsperson, Bajrang Punia, also alleged that their phone numbers are being tracked.
The WFI chief is accused of sexual arassment and intimidation by the grapplers. The ongoing protest demanding his arrest has entered the 18th day.
It is worth noting that it took Olympic champions and several successful wrestlers to come on street and protest to demand justice in sexual harassment case of sportsperson. On Thursday, top Indian grapplers like Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang, Sakshi Malik, Satyawart Kaidyan and Jitender Kinha all tied black bands on their forehead. Other supporters also sorted them on their arms as a mark of protest against.
The WFI chief is facing severe charges of sexual exploitation of several women wrestlers including a minor. The Delhi Police has filed two FIRs, including one under section 10 of POCSO act against the BJP MP.
"We are observing a black day today in protest against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. We are confident of our victory as the entire nation is with us in our fight," Bajrang said.
He also added that his protest is gaining momentum as more people join in their fight for justice.
"Nowadays our phone numbers are being tracked, we are being treated in a manner where it seems as if we have committed a crime. Whoever is in our contact is being tracked, I am telling you," Bajrang told the media.
He was also critical of athlete, Seema Antil, who disapproved the protest and said that the act will have a negative impact on the spirt with camps.
"I don't understand that she is saying that we are causing damage to the sport rather than Brij Bhushan. It's very strange that she doesn't understand this despite being a sportsperson.
The protest has received support from Bharat Kishan Union Ekta (Azad). In addition to this, members of Mazdood Adhikar Sangathan, Sonipat and a small delegation of youth students from Bhagat Singh Youth Union, Maharashtra also came in support of the wrestlers on Thursday.
(With inputs from PTI)