Elite javelin thrower Chopra, who made history by winning India’s first-ever gold medal in athletics at the Olympics, said “it hurts” to see the wrestlers taking to the streets to seek justice.
Friday, Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra voiced his support for the protesting wrestlers and demanded “quick action” from the authorities to ensure that justice is served.
Chopra expressed his displeasure a day after Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha harshly criticised the wrestlers for resuming their protests on the streets rather than approaching its athletes’ commission to lodge their complaints against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
Elite javelin thrower Chopra, who made history by winning India’s first-ever gold medal in athletics at the Olympics, said “it hurts” to see the wrestlers taking to the streets to seek justice.
He tweeted, “It pains me to see our athletes demanding justice in the streets. They have laboured diligently to represent our wonderful country and make us proud. As a nation, we are accountable for protecting the integrity and dignity of all individuals, whether or not they are athletes. What is occurring should never occur.”
“This is a sensitive issue that must be handled with impartiality and transparency. Chopra added that the relevant authorities must act swiftly to ensure that justice is served.
President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) PT Usha lashed out at the disgruntled wrestlers on Thursday, claiming they lacked discipline by taking to the streets rather than confronting WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, and Sakshi Malik are the three central figures in the renewed protests against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president, who has been accused by the grapplers of sexual harassment and intimidation.
The IOA has not yet concluded its investigation into the allegations, and the government-formed oversight commission has not yet released its findings. On April 23, after a three-month wait, the disgruntled wrestlers returned to Jantar Mantar to recommence their protests and also petitioned the Supreme Court for the arrest of the WFI chief. Clearly, the IOA did not appreciate the wrestlers’ manoeuvre.
“In regards to sexual harassment complaints, we believe the IOA has a committee and athletes’ commission. “Instead of going to the street (again), they should have come to us, but they have not come to IOA at all,” Usha told reporters following the executive meeting of the sports organisation.
When asked if the IOA would reach out to the wrestlers, given that they are adamant that they will not abandon the protest site until their demands are met, Usha responded, “There should be some discipline.” Instead of approaching us, they have taken to the streets. It is not conducive to sport.”
Chaubey stated, “IOA President Dr. PT Usha wishes to state that this type of agitation is detrimental to the country’s reputation. India has a positive reputation worldwide. This negative publicity is not beneficial to the nation.”
“We want to be with every athlete who has represented India, not just wrestlers, but under the rules and laws of the country.”
Usha stated in a press release, “They are sitting on a dharna and asking all political parties to join them, and that is what disappoints me.”
Olympic bronze medalist Bajrang stated that the IOA president’s remarks are startling. “She herself is a former athlete and a woman. We did not anticipate her severe response; rather, we anticipated her support,” a flustered Bajrang told PTI.
“If IOA believes that wrestlers demanding justice tarnishes the country’s reputation, then what did she mean when she sobbed and explained her plight after being tormented by a few thugs at her academy? What had transpired?” questioned Bajrang.
The top wrestler was referring to Usha’s breakdown during a press conference in February of this year, when she discussed harassment at her Balussery, Kerala, academy.
When asked if the wrestlers should have waited for the investigation to conclude before taking to the streets, Chaubey responded, “These are significant allegations; we cannot make a decision in a hurry. If we can be patient and wait to see what these committees produce, then we will be able to comment, but right now we are just discussing the day-to-day administration of WFI.”
Additionally, the IOA joint secretary verified that a number of witnesses have yet to appear before the panel.
“The investigation is currently ongoing. We are informed that the committee has a list of witnesses and will invite them to testify before the commission,” Chaubey stated.
As instructed by the sports ministry, Chaubey stated that the IOA has formed a three-member ad hoc committee to administer the WFI and conduct new elections within 45 days of the committee’s formation.
“Bhupendra Singh Bajwa will represent the IOA executive council on the ad-hoc commission, while Suma Shirur is an athlete and a Sportsperson of Merit. They will be responsible for WFI’s daily operations.
“We’ve also discussed (names of) judges, and a retired high court judge will join these two members to form a three-person committee.” The judge of the high court will advise the committee on legal matters, he added.
When Chaubey was reminded that the IOA constitution prohibits an ad hoc committee from operating a national sports federation (NSF), he responded, “There are exceptions in the world.” If IOA intervention can assist a sport or athlete, it will be in India’s best interest.”
Friday, the Supreme Court will hear the case. Before proceeding with the filing of a FIR against Brij Bhushan, the Delhi Police had informed the apex court that a preliminary investigation was necessary.