Indian Government Open to Discussion with Protesting Wrestlers Over Sexual Harassment Allegations
Anurag Thakur, India’s Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, took to Twitter today to proclaim that the federal government is eager to converse with a group of protesting wrestlers about their issues. Wrestlers have been protesting in Delhi for almost a month, seeking the arrest of Wrestling Federation of India head Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, accused of sexual harassment and misbehaviour.
As Union Home Minister Amit Shah met with a group of wrestlers, including Olympic medalists Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik, at his official house in the capital, the protest gained pace. During the discussion, the wrestlers voiced their worries over the investigation into the claims against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, emphasising the significance of a solid and fast chargesheet.
Two First Information Reports (FIRs) have been filed by the Delhi Police against Singh, containing significant allegations such as soliciting sexual favours, sexual harassment, molestation, and intimidation. Several prominent witnesses, including an Olympian, a Commonwealth gold medallist, an international referee, and a state-level coach, have come forward to back the claims made by three female wrestlers.
Home Minister Amit Shah, while admitting the gravity of the charges, emphasised the significance of sticking to proper procedure throughout the ongoing probe. The government’s readiness to engage in dialogue with the protesting wrestlers is an essential step toward resolving their concerns and guaranteeing a fair inquiry into the sexual harassment charges.
