2023-12-26 17:17:42
Title: Vinesh Phogat Writes Open Letter to PM Modi and Returns Awards in Protest Against Treatment of Women Wrestlers
Olympian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has written an open letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing her dismay over the treatment of women wrestlers by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). In protest against the ongoing issue, Phogat has announced that she will be returning her Khel Ratna and Arjuna awards.
The tension between WFI and the wrestlers has been escalating, with Phogat and other top athletes expressing their disappointment at the treatment shown to women wrestlers. The letter to the Prime Minister pointed out issues such as the alleged sexual harassment of women wrestlers by former WFI chief Brij Bhushan, which has caused a rift between the athletes and the federation.
Following the suspension of the newly elected Wrestling Federation of India body by the Sports Ministry, Vinesh Phogat, along with Olympic medalists Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia, addressed a press conference in New Delhi. The wrestlers voiced their concerns over the power returning to the hands of those who had previously oppressed them.
In the heartfelt letter to Prime Minister Modi, Phogat expressed her struggles as a female wrestler and highlighted the disillusionment felt by athletes. She noted her dreams of winning an Olympic medal fading and the lack of government support for athletes. Citing the retirements and actions of fellow wrestlers Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia, Phogat emphasized that the current situation has left the awards meaningless in her life.
The letter also mentioned Phogat’s decision to return her Major Dhyanchand Khel Ratna and Arjuna Award as an act of protest against the treatment of women athletes, and she urged the Prime Minister to listen to her plea for justice.
Reacting to the suspension of WFI, former chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh revealed his retirement from wrestling administration. Meanwhile, new WFI president Sanjay Singh expressed intentions to approach the Sports Ministry and work towards the withdrawal of the suspension.
The bold move by Vinesh Phogat has sparked attention towards the challenges faced by female athletes, and it has drawn focus to the need for change and justice in the wrestling community.
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