Anurag Thakur Announces Centre’s Willingness to Resume Discussions on Wrestlers’ Issues

Anurag Thakur, the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports of India tweeted that the central government is willing to discuss with protesting wrestlers. Earlier, Union Home Minister Amit Shah met a delegation of protesting wrestlers at his official residence in the capital four days ago.

Also read: Wrestlers Protest: Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia Deny Reports of Withdrawing from Protest Against WFI Chief

Check Anurag Thakur Tweet:

Anurag Thakur wrote on social media past midnight on Wednesday, “I have once again invited the wrestlers to discuss their issues.”

The government is willing to have a discussion with the wrestlers on their issues.

I have once again invited the wrestlers for the same.

— Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) June 6, 2023

The meeting between Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Olympic medalists Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik along with several coaches, lasted over two hours and ended after midnight. After the meeting Bajrang Punia stated that, “We had a meeting with the Home Minister. I can’t comment further.”

Some of the country’s top wrestlers, including the 2021 Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist, have been protesting in the national capital for over a month. They have alleged the chief of the Wrestling Federation of India Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment and misconduct.

On April 28, Delhi Police registered two FIRs against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. FIR against Singh include instances of demanding “sexual favours” in exchange for professional assistance, along with numerous incidents of sexual harassment, molestation, and intimidation.

It was also reported that at least three female wrestlers have been supported by one Olympian, a Commonwealth gold medallist, an international referee, and a state-level coach. These individuals are among the 125 potential witnesses whose statements have been recorded by Delhi Police across four states.

The wrestlers raised the status of the investigation into these allegations against Singh as the key issue during their meeting with Shah. They emphasized the need for a quick filing of a strong chargesheet. The Home Minister stated that the due process needs to be followed.

The wrestlers’ demand for a thorough investigation and a swift filing of a strong chargesheet highlights their commitment to seeking justice. As the situation unfolds, it is crucial to ensure that due process is followed and that the voices of the wrestlers are heard.