"Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur expressed his support for a fair investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the outgoing chief of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). In response to the ongoing protests by top wrestlers demanding action against Singh, Minister Thakur emphasized the importance of following the due process of law to ensure justice is served.
Speaking at the India Economic Conclave organized by the Times Network, Thakur acknowledged the wrestlers' desire for justice and assured them that the government favors an unbiased investigation. He highlighted that the Delhi Police is currently handling the case, which was initiated following a report submitted by a government-appointed committee regarding the allegations against Singh, who is also a Member of Parliament for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Refuting suggestions of bias due to Singh's political affiliation, Thakur reaffirmed that there would be no compromise on the investigation's fairness. He stated that the Delhi Police is expected to file a chargesheet in the near future and emphasized that everyone supports a speedy investigation.
Thakur further mentioned that the government has already addressed the demands put forth by the wrestlers. A panel was established to investigate the allegations, and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) was asked to appoint a committee of administrators to oversee the affairs of the WFI. Thakur also highlighted the importance of providing swift justice to athletes and women who have experienced any form of atrocity, adding that the incidents referred to by the wrestlers occurred seven years ago.
While the wrestlers were informed that they could file an FIR (First Information Report) at any police station, they sought government intervention in the matter. Prominent wrestlers, including Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, and Sangeeta Phogat, have been protesting and demanding Singh's arrest for allegedly sexually harassing multiple female grapplers, including a minor.
Minister Thakur's comments reflect the government's commitment to a fair investigation and the delivery of justice through the established legal process. The ongoing protests by wrestlers have drawn attention to the need for addressing allegations of harassment within sporting organizations and ensuring the welfare and safety of athletes."
(With PTI Inputs)
