2016 Rio Olympics bronze medalist wrestler Sakshi Malik has challenged the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. She challenges Brij Bhushan to undergo a narco test and prove himself innocent.
Sakshi Malik said that WFI chief Brij Bhushan should undergo lie detector narco test if he is sure of his innocence following the allegations of sexual harassment leveled against him by seven wrestlers. The protesting wrestlers also said that if Brij Bhushan was still involved in the working of the WFI, they would oppose the holding of the competitions.
“Those people speaking in favour of the WFI chief and saying that we are lying, I would say that Brij Bhushan should undergo a Narco Test under Supreme Court… and also the seven women wrestlers (who have alleged sexual harassment).” Sakshi Malik said in the press conference.
“I would request the womenfolk in the country to support us just like they did in the Nirbhaya case. Express solidarity with us because we are also fighting for the cause of women. If we win this fight, we would have sent a strong message, but if we lose we would go back 50 years.” Sakshi Malik added.
Moreover, the wrestlers also decided to don black armbands on Thursday to protest against the slow process of investigation against Brij Bhushan. The wrestlers sitting on the dharna are demanding the arrest of Brij Bhushan on charges of sexual harassment and intimidation of seven female wrestlers, including a minor.
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The Delhi Police had registered two FIRs against the WFI President on 28 April. However, the investigation is still running on process. The Supreme Court had also reprimanded the Delhi Police for this. Earlier on Monday, there were reports that the wrestlers, who were on strike, have started practicing for the tournaments after 15 days. Wrestlers like Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat had practiced on Monday. These wrestlers are preparing for the trials for the Asian Games. At the same time, the ad-hoc panel of IOA has decided to conduct the trial from May 17.
