Today (1st March) Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, and other wrestlers have taken legal action by contesting the Wrestling Federation of India’s (WFI) circular concerning Olympic trials. Their challenge has been filed in the Delhi High Court, raising questions about the fairness and legality of the selection process.
NEW DELHI: Today (1st March) Wrestlers Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Satywart Kadian have taken legal action by filing a petition in the Delhi High Court. They are contesting an invitation issued by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for wrestlers to partake in selection trials for the Asian Olympic Qualifiers and the World Olympic Qualifiers.
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These wrestlers were prominent figures in the protest against former WFI President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Following Singh’s tenure, Sanjay Singh assumed leadership of the wrestling federation, reportedly with close ties to Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
Punia and his colleagues assert that the WFI, having been suspended by the sports ministry, lacks the authority to organize these trials.
The petition argues that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) established an ad-hoc committee to oversee WFI affairs. Despite its unlawful status, the WFI allegedly proceeded with the notice for the selection trials.
“It is crucial to restrain Respondent No.2 (WFI) from conducting such events or issuing circulars, as it continues to mislead, manipulate, and threaten wrestling athletes,” the plea contends.
The petition highlights that the ad hoc committee has set trial dates coinciding with those announced by the WFI.
“Conducting two simultaneous national championships will cause confusion among athletes and may result in multiple qualification entries for international bodies. There are legitimate concerns about WFI’s attempts to undermine the eligibility and integrity of athletes, including anti-doping measures,” the plea further states.
The wrestlers argue that they, along with many others, have faced discrimination and harassment from the WFI for speaking out against irregularities within the federation and sexual harassment allegations against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and other officials.
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“The undue influence and biased actions of Respondent No.2 were so apparent that investigations into formal complaints of sexual harassment against WFI officials were only initiated following Supreme Court intervention. Athletes who have raised concerns against WFI’s wrongdoings have faced intimidation and marginalization,” the plea concludes.
The Delhi High Court is expected to consider the petition next week.
[Case Title: Bajrang Punia & Ors v Union of India & Ors]
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