Top Wrestlers Gather at Sports Minister’s House Hours After Invitation for Talks

India’s renowned wrestlers, namely Bajrang Punia and Sakshee Malikkh, have emerged as powerful voices leading protests against the Wrestling Federation Chief and prominent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. In a remarkable turn of events, these wrestlers were invited to engage in talks with the esteemed Sports Minister, Anurag Thakur, at his residence following a late-night invitation extended via Twitter.

This crucial meeting marked the second occasion within a span of merely five days where the wrestlers were able to express their concerns and demands directly to the government. Previously, they had the opportunity to meet with the esteemed Home Minister, Amit Shah, on a late Saturday evening. The purpose behind these meetings was to seek appropriate action against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who has been gravely accused of sexual harassment by seven women wrestlers.

Meeting with Sports Minister

By stepping forward as prominent figures within the wrestling community, Bajrang Punia and Sakshee Malikkh have displayed immense courage and determination in their quest for justice. Their willingness to take a stand against the alleged misconduct of a prominent figure within the Wrestling Federation demonstrates their commitment to ensuring a safe and equitable environment for all athletes. These wrestlers have chosen to utilize their influence and stature to shine a light on the urgent need for accountability, thus garnering support from fellow athletes, supporters, and concerned citizens alike.

The wrestlers’ meeting with Sports Minister Anurag Thakur signifies a significant step forward in their pursuit of justice. By engaging in productive discussions with the relevant authorities, they aim to emphasize the gravity of the accusations against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and seek appropriate measures to address the issue. The wrestlers, having proven their mettle on the wrestling mat, now navigate the complex terrain of political and administrative spheres to ensure the establishment of a fair and transparent system within the Wrestling Federation.

Tweets During The Wrestlers’ Protest

Mr. Thakur took to Twitter last night at 12:47 am, reiterating the government’s willingness to engage in a fruitful discussion with the wrestlers regarding their concerns. He extended a renewed invitation to the wrestlers, emphasizing the government’s commitment to address the issues raised by Bajrang Punia, Sakshee Malikkh, and their fellow athletes.

Shortly after Bajrang Punia’s interview with NDTV, where he explicitly denied any agreement or arrangement with the government. He revealed that the wrestlers were instructed to keep their meeting with Amit Shah confidential. According to sources, Mr. Punia received a phone call from the Home Minister himself, extending another invitation for a subsequent round of discussions.

During the call, Mr. Punia reportedly conveyed to Mr. Shah that the wrestlers had no desire for clandestine or secretive meetings. This communication served as a clear message from the wrestlers, emphasizing their preference for transparency and open dialogue in addressing the prevailing concerns.

Following this interaction between Bajrang Punia and Amit Shah, Sports Minister Anurag Thakur took to social media to extend yet another invitation for talks. This post served as a renewed gesture of willingness from the government to engage in constructive conversations with the wrestlers.

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Interview Of The Wrestlers

In an exclusive interview with NDTV on Tuesday, Bajrang Punia disclosed that during the previous meeting with Amit Shah, the Home Minister had informed them about an ongoing investigation into the matter. This revelation shed light on the government’s acknowledgment of the seriousness of the allegations and their commitment to carrying out a thorough inquiry.

“The protest movement won’t stop; it hasn’t gone away. We have been planning how to move it ahead, according to Mr. Punia. “The athletes are not happy with the government’s response, and the government is not complying with our demands,” the athletes said.

At 11 o’clock at night, Mr. Shah had a lengthy meeting with Mr. Punia, Sakshee Malikkh, Sangita Phogat, and Satyawart Kadian. A youngster is among the seven female wrestlers who have accused Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of harassing them sexually. The wrestlers have called for an unbiased investigation and prompt action against the head of the wrestling organization.

In relation to the Mr. Singh sexual harassment case, the Delhi Police has spoken with a number of people. According to sources, three to four federation members have been questioned. The police have reportedly summoned several staff members to Mr. Singh’s Delhi home for questioning.

Rakesh Tikait, the leader of the Bhartiya Kisan organization (BKU), claimed on Tuesday that the farmers’ organization had only agreed to put off the protest against Mr. Singh scheduled for June 9 at the wrestlers’ request.

Conclusion