India’s prominent wrestlers have declared their intention to symbolically discard their hard-earned medals into the Ganges, India’s revered river, as part of their ongoing protest that has spanned several months.
Additionally, they have announced plans to embark on an indefinite hunger strike at India Gate, a significant war memorial located in the capital city of Delhi.
The wrestlers have steadfastly demanded the immediate resignation and subsequent arrest of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the chief of their wrestling federation, whom they accuse of persistently subjecting female wrestlers to sexual harassment over an extended period of time.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the protesting wrestlers expressed their deep emotions, stating, “These medals hold immense significance in our lives, representing our dedication and hard work… However, we believe that the meaning behind these medals has been compromised.”
Prominent figures, including Olympic medallists Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, and two-time World Champion medallist Vinesh Phogat, have shared the statement and joined the protesters.
Risking their dreams for the “#MeToo” protest
The wrestlers initially considered returning their medals to the President and the Prime Minister of India. However, their disappointment grew when they observed a lack of inquiry or concern from the two leaders.
The statement further emphasized, “Once we cast our medals into the sacred River Ganga, our existence would lose its purpose. Therefore, we have resolved to gather at India Gate and commence an indefinite hunger strike, willing to sacrifice our lives if necessary.”
During their ongoing protest, the wrestlers, including Olympic medallists Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, and Vinesh Phogat, were detained on Sunday while attempting to march towards India’s newly constructed parliament building to amplify their cause.
The Delhi Police intervened and transported them away from the area using buses. This incident occurred a few miles away from the parliament building, which was being inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Videos capturing the athletes being forcibly removed and taken away in buses quickly went viral, drawing criticism from prominent athletes and opposition politicians alike.
On Tuesday, the wrestlers strongly condemned the police’s actions, asserting that they were treated as “criminals.” They questioned, “Have female athletes committed a crime by demanding justice for the sexual harassment they have endured?”
Cases, including charges of rioting, have been registered against the wrestlers by the Delhi Police.
Subsequently, the wrestlers dismantled their protest site in Delhi, although they have stated their intention to return there in the future.
The athletes initiated their protest against Brij Bhushan Singh, the chief of the wrestling federation in India, on 23 April. Mr. Singh, who wields political influence and serves as a Member of Parliament from the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), has consistently denied all allegations, dismissing the protests as politically motivated.