#wfi elections

[sportsfanda11]

Selection trials priority over WFI elections: PT Usha

File Photo: Rajya Sabha MP and Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President P.T. Usha during wrestlers’ protest at Jantar Mantar, in New Delhi, Wednesday, May 3, 2023. | Photo Credit: PTI File Photo: Rajya Sabha MP and Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President P.T. Usha during wrestlers’ protest at Jantar Mantar, in New Delhi, Wednesday, May 3, 2023. | Photo Credit: PTI Indian Olympic…

[akilsposts]

Greater than a Medal...

The story of Vinesh Phogat is one of enduring resilience and an athlete's determination to overcome all the odds stacked against her. From being one of the faces of the brave protest against the sexual harassment faced by women wrestlers (including minors) at the hands of the then head of the Wrestling Federation of India and BJP MP, Brij Bhushan Charan Singh, to becoming an unceasing source of inspiration for innumerable people in this country, Vinesh Phogat has become a shining light in not just the sporting history of India but also among those fighting for a safe and better society.

The story is not unfamiliar to the world because the latest chapter of it unfolded at the Olympic Games which was recently held in Paris. The official version is very simple: Having fought through a draw that needed her to beat the defending Olympic Champion, the reigning European Champion, the reigning Pan American champion in each of her rounds, Vinesh had entered the final and was scheduled to face Sarah Hildebrandt of the USA before she was disqualified on the morning of the bout for being 100g above the permissible weight of 50 kg. Vinesh Phogat's disqualification meant that she would end up receiving no medals. However, it is the role of different sporting and political authorities of our country, and all the events that took place leading to the Olympic final that needs our examination as a concerned society.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA), as is the case with any other sports-body in India, has long been a rubber-stamp that is invariably controlled by the ruling dispensations. The role of this body in this whole affair is suspect. That the alacrity with which it announced the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the competition was not shown in making an appeal against the decision has not gone unnoticed. Its President, P.T. Usha, has been quick to absolve her organisation from all responsibility in the matter and has covertly and overtly placed the blame on the shoulders of the athlete. The Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, addressing the issue in the Parliament, stooped so low as to declaim about the money the government had spent on Vinesh Phogat's training. At this point, it should not be forgotten that it was this same ministry that had delayed in providing accreditation for Phogat's support staff including her coaches and physiotherapists. The snide and even belittling remarks following the disqualification and the barely concealed glee of many elected representatives of the ruling party point to the deep resentment that they had harboured towards Vinesh. However, the most noticeable was the silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi following each of Phogat's victorious bouts leading to the final. It was very uncharacteristic because he has always been quick to bask in the reflected glory of the achievements of our sportspersons. It is unsurprising that his social media post after the disqualification was equated to the shedding of crocodile tears by the discerning public.

Vinesh Phogat's achievement can only be understood in its true proportions if we take into account the reason for her being above the permissible weight by a mere 100 grams. This is also the reason why she has been a thorn in the flesh of the authorities in our country. Phogat is an athlete whose normal weight is 55-56 kg. She usually competes in the 53kg weight category. However, she had to forgo all rigorous training during the phase of protest where she and fellow wrestlers and Olympic medalists Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia protested for many days and nights on the streets of Delhi at Jantar Mantar demanding the arrest of Brij Bhushan. Not only was she unable to train, she also had to undergo surgery to correct a lingering medical issue. In the meanwhile, the qualifying spot in her preferred 53 kg category was already taken by another wrestler. Fearing that the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) would not allow her trials in the 53 kg category as retribution for her role in the protests, she appeared for trials in both the 53 kg and also the 50 kg. Subsequently, she qualified for the Olympics in the 50kg category. In a sport as gruelling as wrestling it is normal for athletes to gain and lose weight between matches. However, the very fact that Vinesh had to lose 5-6 kg just to compete in the Olympics, that too in a category that is not her preferred one speaks volumes about her determination and character. But, the very fact that she was forced to do all these is the result of the constant obstacles that were erected before her by the nefarious authorities, particularly the WFI which continues to be ruled by Brij Bhushan in all but name.

The story of Vinesh Phogat is compelling. She may have been disqualified for reasons beyond her control, and ones which are suspicious to say the least but she has, undoubtedly, won her greatest battle. She had famously proclaimed that she would happily sacrifice her career if it meant that countless other girls would get an opportunity for a safe working environment. She stuck steadfastly to the same goal going into this Olympics. She knew that it would be her last Olympics and that her career would be over but she wanted to fight for the women who would follow in her path. She was actutely aware that a victory at the Olympics, in front of the watching world would be the greatest slap in the face of a system that not only refuses to come to their aid but obstinately shields the criminals who wronged them. Needless to say, the authorities were also well aware of this. Yet, Vinesh's determination has inspired countless who celebrated each of her victories and wanted her to bring home the much coveted gold. The outrage and disappointment at her disqualification soon turned into a universal acknowledgement of the brave fight put up by this undaunted wrestler. If the rousing and heartwarming reception that she received on her return to India is any indication, Vinesh Phogat's and her fellow wrestlers fight has surely stirred the conscience of this country. This is important for a society that continues to stifle women's participation in not just sports, but all public activities. Recent events in our country are evidence that women remain unsafe in the present social atmosphere. It will be through unrelenting protests and collective activities like sports that we will achieve true democratization. Vinesh Phogat's role will forever be etched into the history of this struggle, for in a world where sportspersons and other famous personalities either openly endorse those in power or remain tight lipped to protect their own personal interests, she has fought the hard battle for a cause greater than an Olympic medal.

[nadezhda-wexler]

i'm so sad and desperate and broken this christmas. india's democracy is breaking down. 146 elected officials were suspended. 146 elected officials from opposition. here is how it looks.

(the saffron is the ruling party)

After the suspensions, major bills were introduced and passed without much deliberation and opposition.

One is a Telecommunication bill which uses vague language and broad strokes to basically spell the end of anonymity and privacy on the internet.

Then there are three major criminal justice reform bills that basically uses the same playbook- vague language and broad strokes to further government overreach.

The ruling party does have the majority to pass the bills regardless of suspension. But with the suspension, any type of questioning and discussion of these bills have been taken away.

Then there is the case of WFI (Wrestling Federation of India). For over a year, the wrestlers (and only wrestlers because honestly no one in the Indian Public Eye has a spine, but that's a different post) have accused the then chief of WFI, Brij Bhushan (of the ruling party BJP) of sexual exploitation and intimidation. They protested and the ask was simple enough- kick him out and suspend the current body.

Wrestlers were arrested for protesting, the Supreme Court had to intervene just so that the FIR would be filed, and after a lot of struggle and a lot of bureaucracy, an election was held on dec 21st.

the new chief was Sanjay Singh- right hand man of accused Brij Bhushan.

Sakshi Malik- an olympic bronze medalist- quit wrestling the same day in an emotional press conference.

Bajrang Punia- another olympic medal winner- gave up one of the highest civilian honours in protest.

(The new WFI is suspended as of right now for disregarding the rules, after Sakshi Malik raised concerns that the junior wrestling matches were held in Brij Bhushan strongholds. )

This is on top of journalistic curbs, crackdown of opposition and targeting of minority(esp muslims) which has been the baseline of their operation for 10years.

the mainstream media of india is in the palm of bjp's hand. the ruling party continuously controls the narrative and we don't have strong opposition. they have strong internet presence. secularism and diversity are being painted as bad things to achieve.

It is so bleak and I feel utterly powerless. This govt is heartless authoritarian ghouls and considers prime minister modi to be god.

this is incoherent but i feel incoherent. i just feel so... done. what can i do? i'm seriously asking. what can i do? i can't give up. this is my country. i won't give up. so if anyone has any ideas, i'm asking again: what can i do?

[sivavakkiyar]

[hindustanmorning]

Women wrestlers might win four to five medals in 2028 if WFI works: Singh Sanjay

Indore: According to WFI President Sanjay Singh, India can win four or five medals in women’s wrestling at the 2028 Olympics, but for that to occur, “a couple of institutions” must cease meddling with the national federation’s day-to-day operations. The World Wrestling Federation (UWW) lifted the suspension of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) in February after its election, but the Sports…

[adityaraj01]

Sakshi Malik leaves wrestling when Sanjay Singh, a Brij Bhushan assistant, is elected WFI chief

Sakshi Malik’s resignation is not merely an isolated act but rather a reflection of the broader issues facing athletes within sports organizations. Malik has been an advocate for athlete rights and fair representation, and her decision to step down highlights the need for a more inclusive and athlete-centric approach in the administration of sports bodies.

[trustednewstribune]

Vinesh Phogat Returns Awards: Indian Sports Controversy

Haryana Home Minister criticizes award returns, while wrestler Vinesh Phogat takes a stand, returning Khel Ratna and Arjuna awards.

In a bold move that has stirred controversy in Indian sports, wrestler Vinesh Phogat has returned her Khel Ratna and Arjuna awards to protest against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). While her decision aims to draw attention to the challenges faced by wrestlers, Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij has criticized such award returns, emphasizing the earned nature of these honors.

The two-time World Championship medal winner, Vinesh Phogat, expressed her discontent with the state of wrestling justice in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She highlighted the disparity between government advertisements promoting women's empowerment and the struggles faced by wrestlers. Her decision follows similar actions by Olympic medallist Bajrang Punia and Deaflympics champion Virender Singh Yadav, along with Sakshi Malik quitting the sport.

The controversy involves Sanjay Singh's election as WFI president on December 21, leading to accusations of sexual harassment against former president Brij Bhushan Singh Sharan. The sports ministry suspended the newly elected WFI, and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has established a three-member ad hoc committee to oversee day-to-day affairs.

Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij voiced his disapproval of the trend of returning awards, asserting that players have rightfully earned these honors. He stressed that the awards symbolize national pride and should not be revoked by any organization.

As the controversy unfolds, Vinesh Phogat's decision sparks discussions on the challenges faced by athletes and the need for systemic reforms in Indian sports. The ad hoc committee's role in managing WFI's affairs adds another dimension to the evolving narrative.

[bollytollykolly]

WFI election row: Vinesh Phogat to return Khel Ratna, Arjuna awards - Hindustan Times

https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMigAFodHRwczovL3d3dy5oaW5kdXN0YW50aW1lcy5jb20vaW5kaWEtbmV3cy93ZmktZWxlY3Rpb24tcm93LXZpbmVzaC1waG9nYXQtdG8tcmV0dXJuLWtoZWwtcmF0bmEtYXJqdW5hLWF3YXJkcy0xMDE3MDM1OTkyNTg1ODUuaHRtbNIBAA?oc=5&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=tumblr

[mahampsc]

Another opportunity: On the Wrestling Federation of India and reforms 

The Union Sports Ministry suspending the newly elected Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) on Sunday marks yet another twist in the nearly year-long saga afflicting Indian wrestling. In January 2023, Olympic medallists Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia, and World Championship medallist Vinesh Phogat, had accused the then WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and the coaches of the Federation of…

[localreport]

Heard some activity has been stopped, says newly-elected WFI president Sanjay Singh on Sports Ministry’s suspension

[sportsgr8]

Sanjay Singh Elected New President Of Wrestling Federation Of India

Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh: Sanjay Singh, a close aide of deposed WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, was on Thursday elected as the new president of the Wrestling Federation of India. Voting took place earlier on Thursday following a lengthy legal tussle as the federation remains suspended by the international federation United World Wrestling. The elections were held for 15 posts, including the president, treasurer, secretary-general, and senior vice-president. Former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh was deposed following a lengthy agitation by a group of grapplers led by Olympians Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik and Vinesh Phogat. Punia and Malik had recently met sports minister Anurag Thakur seeking ways to prevent Brij Bhushan's aide from contesting for president but to no avail. More to follow. Read the full article

[deshbandhu]

यूनाइटेड वर्ल्ड रेसलिंग के प्रमुख ने सोमवार को कहा कि भारतीय कुश्ती महासंघ (डब्ल्यूएफआई) का स्वतंत्र और निष्पक्ष चुनाव कराने और लोकतांत्रिक तरीके से निर्वाचित प्रबंध समिति स्थापित करने के बाद उस पर से प्रतिबंध हटा लिया जायेगा। हालांकि उन्होंने इसके लिए कोई समय सीमा नहीं बताई। यहां 141वें आईओसी सत्र से इतर मीडिया से बात करते हुए यूनाइटेड वर्ल्ड रेसलिंग (यूडब्ल्यूडब्ल्यू) के अध्यक्ष नेनाद लालोविक ने कहा कि जैसे ही भारतीय अधिकारी कानूनी मुद्दों को सुलझाने और लोकतांत्रिक तरीके से निर्वाचित निकाय स्‍थापित करने में सफल हो जाएंगे, तथा नामों के बारे में वैश्विक निकाय को सूचित करेंगे, निलंबन हटा दिया जाएगा। Visit>>https://www.deshbandhu.co.in/news/sports-the-head-of-the-world-wrestling-federation-said-that-the-suspension-of-wfi-will-continue-till-the-elections-400451-1

[blogynews]

The Shocking Blame Game: Brij Bhushan and Wrestler Vinesh Phogat Point Fingers, Causing WFI Suspension

The United World Wrestling (UWW) has suspended the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for failing to hold elections within the mandated 45-day period. The WFI elections were scheduled for August 12 but were halted by the Punjab and Haryana High Court due to a petition filed by the Haryana Wrestling Association (HWA). As a result, Indian wrestlers will not be able to compete under the national…

[blogynewz]

The Shocking Blame Game: Brij Bhushan and Wrestler Vinesh Phogat Point Fingers, Causing WFI Suspension

The United World Wrestling (UWW) has suspended the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for failing to hold elections within the mandated 45-day period. The WFI elections were scheduled for August 12 but were halted by the Punjab and Haryana High Court due to a petition filed by the Haryana Wrestling Association (HWA). As a result, Indian wrestlers will not be able to compete under the national…

[blogynewsz]

Unveiling the Dramatic Timeline: From Gripping Wrestlers' Protest to Shocking WFI Suspension

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has been suspended by the United World of Wrestling (UWW), the global governing body for the sport, due to its failure to conduct elections. This suspension comes after the WFI became embroiled in controversies, particularly regarding former president Brij Bhushan Sharan, who was accused of alleged sexual harassment by some wrestlers. Initially, the…