Wrestler Vinesh Phogat decides to surrender Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awards amidst WFI election controversy

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has taken a bold stand by announcing the return of her Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna and Arjuna awards. In an open letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, Phogat expressed her dissatisfaction with the election of Sanjay Singh as the president of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI).

Protest against WFI election outcome:

Phogat, a recipient of the Khel Ratna in 2020 and the Arjuna Award in 2016, cited her decision as a protest against the election results where Singh, affiliated with BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, emerged as the president. Her move follows similar actions by fellow wrestler Sakshi Malik, who 'retired' from the sport, and Bajrang Punia, who returned his Padma Shri, both in opposition to the election outcome.

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Background on WFI elections and allegations:

The WFI elections on December 21 resulted in a victory for candidates close to Brij Bhushan, with Singh assuming the presidency. However, on Sunday, the Union sports ministry suspended the newly elected governing body pending further orders.

Earlier in the year, wrestlers, including Malik, Phogat, and Punia, protested against Brij Bhushan, accusing him of sexual harassment of female wrestlers, including minors. Despite assurances from the BJP-led Union government for justice, the allegations persisted, and the agitation was temporarily withdrawn during the year.

Phogat's decision to return her prestigious awards signals a strong statement against the perceived challenges within the WFI and seeks attention to the ongoing issues in Indian wrestling.

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