In a development following the recent allegations of sexual harassment against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, BJP MP and Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief, Union Home Minister Amit Shah engaged in a second round of discussions with protesting wrestlers. The meeting comes in response to Olympian wrestler Bajrang Punia’s statement on NDTV, asserting that the protests would persist until appropriate action was taken. The wrestlers have demanded a thorough investigation and swift measures against Singh. Sources confirm that the meeting, held on Saturday, aimed to address the concerns raised by the wrestlers.
Engagement with Protesters: According to inside sources, Bajrang Punia revealed in his NDTV interview that the protesters were instructed by the government to maintain secrecy regarding their Saturday meeting with Amit Shah. He further emphasized that there was no undisclosed arrangement or understanding with the Home Minister, ensuring the continuation of their demands.
Invitation to Dialogue: Promptly after the interview, Bajrang Punia received a phone call from Amit Shah personally, inviting the wrestlers for another meeting. Expressing the wrestlers’ desire for transparency, Punia conveyed that secretive meetings were not in their interest. Responding to this, Union Minister Anurag Thakur extended a formal invitation for talks via a tweet in the late hours of Wednesday. The tweet expressed the government’s willingness to address the concerns raised by the wrestlers.
Assurances and Ongoing Movement: During the late-night meeting between Amit Shah and the wrestlers, which lasted over an hour, the Home Minister reportedly assured the athletes that the law applies to everyone equally. Shah emphasized the importance of allowing the legal process to take its course. Despite the meeting, Bajrang Punia reiterated that the protest movement had not diminished, vowing to continue fighting for their demands. He expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s response and emphasized the need for further strategizing.
Allegations of Sexual Harassment: The allegations against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh involve seven women wrestlers, including a minor. Two FIRs have been filed, accusing Singh of inappropriate touching, groping, asking intrusive personal questions, and demanding sexual favors under the guise of breath-checking. The wrestlers are calling for an impartial investigation into these allegations and swift action against Singh.
Police Investigation: The Delhi Police has reportedly questioned Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh twice and has recorded statements from three to four members of the Wrestling Federation of India. Additionally, police sources indicate that staff members at Singh’s Delhi residence have been summoned for questioning. These investigative measures are indicative of the seriousness with which the authorities are approaching the case.
Conclusion: The ongoing dialogue between the protesting wrestlers and Union Home Minister Amit Shah reflects the commitment to address the allegations of sexual harassment against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. With the wrestlers persisting in their demands for an impartial investigation and swift action, the outcome of these discussions will play a pivotal role in determining the path forward. As the investigation progresses, it remains to be seen how the Wrestling Federation of India and the government will respond to ensure justice and uphold the rights of athletes.