Two Wrestlers Among Those Detained During Protest
In a recent turn of events, two Olympic wrestlers have been detained by police in India during the latest protest against the alleged sexual abuse of female athletes. Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik, along with other prominent wrestlers, were attempting to march toward Delhi's new parliament on Sunday when they were met with a massive police presence.
Footage from the scene captured protesters scaling barricades and being carried away by the authorities, highlighting the intensity of the confrontation. Among the wrestlers detained were two-time World Championship medallist Vinesh Phogat and her sister Sangeeta, who were also prominent figures in the country's wrestling community.
Expressing her discontent, Sakshi Malik told reporters that their detainment was unjust, stating, "We were walking quietly, they dragged us forcefully and detained us, and they're not even telling us where we will be taken." The wrestlers claimed that they had peacefully requested permission to proceed, urging the police to allow them to march.
The incident unfolded during the official inauguration of the new parliament building by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, the ceremony faced a boycott from most opposition parties, who criticized the government for not inviting President Draupadi Murmu, the head of state, to perform the opening. The wrestlers' protest added to the already tense atmosphere surrounding the event.
Police Response and Opposition Criticism
Police authorities claimed that the protesting wrestlers had disregarded their instructions and attempted to breach the barricades. Delhi's Special Commissioner of Police, Dependra Pathak, asserted that the law had been broken. He stated, "Regarding further action, we would ascertain what rules have been violated and then take action by following due legal process.
As tensions mounted, the police also dismantled tents and other belongings at the protest site, which had served as a camp for the demonstrators for several weeks. Their handling of the march drew criticism from various opposition politicians. West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, from the All India Trinamool Congress party, tweeted, "Strongly condemn the way Delhi Police manhandled Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, and other wrestlers. It's shameful our champions are treated in this manner.
Delhi's Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, representing the Aam Aadmi Party, also condemned the behavior of the police, labeling it as "very wrong and condemnable." The mistreatment of the wrestlers has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice.
Wrestlers' Allegations and Ongoing Protests
The protesters, including the detained wrestlers, accuse wrestling officials, including Brij Bhushan Singh, the head of the sport's governing body, of sexually harassing female athletes. Brij Bhushan Singh has denied the allegations. The wrestlers initiated their protests in January but temporarily halted them after the sports ministry stripped Singh of his administrative powers and promised to investigate the complaints.
However, in April, the wrestlers resumed their protests, demanding the arrest of Brij Bhushan Singh. Earlier this month, they alleged that they were subjected to abuse and assault by the Delhi police. To investigate the claims against Singh, the Indian Olympic Association established a committee, which submitted its report several weeks ago. However, the findings of the committee have not yet been disclosed to the public.
Farmers Rally in Support of Wrestlers
In addition to the ongoing wrestling protests, Delhi's police were also on high alert as a group of farmers sought to enter the city to show solidarity with the detained wrestlers. This followed a previous incident where dozens of farmers broke through police barricades in Delhi to join a separate demonstration.
As the nation grapples with these complex issues surrounding alleged sexual abuse and misconduct within the sports community, the detained wrestlers have vowed to continue their "satyagraha," a non-violent form of resistance, once they are released. The wrestling community's determination to seek justice and hold accountable those responsible for the alleged abuse remains unwavering.
In the face of these serious accusations, it is crucial for the authorities to thoroughly investigate the wrestlers' claims and provide a transparent resolution. The eyes of the nation are now on the Indian government and sports officials to address this deeply concerning issue, ensuring the safety and dignity of athletes in the country.
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