In response to the recent decision by the Union Sports Ministry to suspend the new Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan on Sunday asserted that it was a decision compelled by massive public pressure. He emphasized the urgency of addressing serious allegations against Brij Bhushan Singh, including accusations of raping and molesting sportspersons, urging that these charges be taken to a logical conclusion.
Expressing strong condemnation for the suspended WFI, Sandhwan called for its immediate termination. He insisted on the necessity of conducting fresh elections in a transparent manner to ensure the credibility of the governing body for wrestling in India.
Sandhwan questioned the decision to stop short of terminating the new WFI, which he referred to as a proxy for its former head entangled in serious criminal charges.
Highlighting the significance of protecting athletes and ensuring justice, Sandhwan stressed that no nation could prosper if its athletes, especially daughters, are not safeguarded.
He commended the resilience of athletes like Sakshi and Bajrang, who have bravely fought against injustice and humiliation. Sandhwan deemed their determination as exemplary and emphasized the painful and shameful nature of witnessing Olympians being disrespected and humiliated.
Sandhwan criticized the entire process as a farce and accused the Union Government of being aware that public trust and sympathy were with the athletes who had been wronged. He expressed deep sorrow over the tears shed by the athletes, labeling them as a burden on the nation.
Sandhwan concluded by expressing the pain of witnessing star athletes returning their hard-earned medals, emphasizing the need for swift and just action to restore the dignity of Indian sports.
