A 31-member committee to advise the Wrestlers’ Protest on Sunday said it will take a crucial decision if WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh is not arrested by May 21.
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WFI chief Brij Bhushan appeals to farmers and khap leaders to join SKM in protest against wrestlers. Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) spokesperson Rakesh Tikait, Khap Maham 24 chief Mehar Singh and Sankyut Kisan Morcha’s (non-political) Baldev Singh Sirsa joined the wrestlers’ protest on stage and addressed the media.
Anticipating a large gathering in support of the wrestlers, security arrangements were beefed up in advance with over 500 personnel from agencies such as Rapid Action Force (RAF), Delhi Police and CRPF. Hundreds of turbaned farmers wearing dhoti-kurta were seen at the protest site during the discussion on the next step by the wrestlers in the ‘Mahapanchayat’ on Sunday.
The scenes were similar to the farmers’ protest that continued for 13 months until the government repealed the law. The Delhi Police has recorded the statements of seven women complainants under section 161. While the statements of 164 (before a magistrate) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) are yet to be recorded.
Wrestlers have accused Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan of sexually harassing several women wrestlers and demanded his removal. Tikait said that the tricolor has been insulted and it will not be tolerated.
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Meanwhile, world championship medalist Vinesh Phogat also indicated that the protest could get bigger if their demands are not met. “We can take a big call if a resolution does not come by May 21. No one has hijacked our protest, it’s just that people have joined us in our fight against injustice. These people respect us and care for our dignity.All the women can connect to this battle of ours. The supporters have given us strength. We are ready to fight. Asked if they are mentally prepared to shun training and competition for a long time.” Phogat said.
