Indian Olympic Association President, PT Usha, has criticized the wrestlers who have resumed their protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan on accusations of sexual harassment. According to PT Usha, the wrestler’s protest on the streets is tarnishing India’s image and equates to indiscipline. The star wrestlers, including World Championships medal winner Vinesh Phogat, and Olympic medallists Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik, have renewed their indefinite protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, making allegations against Brij Bhushan of sexual harassment and criminal intimidation. The IOA has established an ad-hoc panel comprising three members to manage the affairs of the WFI until a new governing body is elected. Meanwhile, Sports Minister Anurag Thakur has committed to an impartial probe into the charges against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, stating that he had spent 12 hours listening to the wrestlers’ grievances and held a press conference to address their concerns. However, the athletes, including ace wrestler Bajrang Punia, have alleged that nothing has been done so far to resolve their issues.
