Sakshi Malik, the Rio Games bronze medallist wrestler, has taken a strong stand against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for choosing Karan Singh, the son of former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, as its candidate for the Lok Sabha polls from the Kaiserganj seat in Uttar Pradesh. This decision has sparked outrage among top wrestlers, including Sakshi, Bajrang Punia, and Vinesh Phogat, who had accused Brij Bhushan of sexually harassing women wrestlers during his tenure.
In a scathing post on social media, Sakshi expressed her disappointment, stating, “The daughters of the country lost, Brij Bhushan won.” She highlighted the wrestlers’ demand for justice, which has not been met despite their protests and sacrifices. Sakshi, along with Bajrang and Vinesh, had demanded accountability and transparency in the WFI elections, urging that Brij Bhushan’s relatives or close aides should not be allowed to contest.
The decision to field Karan Singh as a candidate has reignited the controversy surrounding Brij Bhushan and his alleged misconduct, leading to further backlash from the wrestling community. Sakshi’s bold stance against the BJP’s choice reflects the frustration and disillusionment felt by many athletes who have been fighting for accountability and justice in the sport.
As the political landscape intertwines with the world of sports, Sakshi Malik’s outspoken criticism serves as a reminder of the power dynamics at play and the importance of holding leaders accountable for their actions. The wrestling community’s continued fight for justice and integrity in the sport remains a pressing issue that demands attention and action.