Vinesh Phogat, India’s celebrated wrestler and the sole Asian Games gold medal-winning woman wrestler, made a bold statement by returning her Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna and Arjuna awards. Her actions were in protest against the victory of Sanjay Singh, a loyalist of former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, in the recent elections.
In a poignant open letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vinesh expressed her deep disappointment and frustration. She questioned the treatment of female athletes, asking whether they were merely intended for government advertisements. She highlighted the plight of athletes who had to leave their sports careers or return their accolades, signaling a distressing trend.
Referencing the year 2016 when Sakshi Malik, an Olympic medalist, was appointed as the brand ambassador for the “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” scheme, Vinesh recalled the initial jubilation among female athletes. However, with the subsequent exit of athletes from their sports and their struggles, she questioned the disconnection between government ads and the reality faced by female wrestlers.
Vinesh drew attention to the hardships faced by women wrestlers, citing derogatory statements made against them. She pointed out the derogatory language used against female wrestlers, their discomfort, and humiliation, leading many to step back from the sport. She underscored the disturbing environment perpetuated by the exploitation of athletes, causing distress and discomfort among them.
Expressing her anguish, Vinesh highlighted the lack of support and recognition for athletes who have raised their voices for justice. She stressed the emotional value of medals and awards, emphasizing that they hold greater significance than their monetary worth. Her return of the awards was a symbolic act representing her disillusionment with the current state of affairs in Indian sports.
Vinesh’s actions were part of a larger movement against the governance issues within the Wrestling Federation of India. Allegations of sexual harassment, molestation, and intimidation against Brij Bhushan Singh led to protests by athletes, including Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, and Vinesh herself. The delayed elections of the WFI, followed by raised objections and subsequent suspension of the newly elected committee by the sports ministry, indicated the gravity of the situation.
Vinesh Phogat’s decision to return her awards serves as a significant moment in Indian sports. It sheds light on the need for transparency, accountability, and fair treatment of athletes. Her brave stance has sparked conversations about the challenges faced by athletes and the urgent need for reforms in sports governance.
Her symbolic act represents not just her personal disillusionment but also mirrors the frustrations of many athletes in India, calling for systemic changes and fair treatment for athletes striving for glory on the international stage.
