As the parliamentary and assembly polls approach next year, wrestlers persistently advocate for the permanent expulsion of Brij Bhushan Singh Sharan and his associate from the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). The ongoing dispute remains a topic of widespread discussion, garnering support across the country. A new development emerged after Vinesh Phogat announced the return of Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awards, expressing her dissatisfaction with the treatment of female wrestlers by the former WFI chief.
As a form of protest and a strategy to build pressure on the government, most wrestling players stand united, gaining support from various sections of society and political figures. The dispute between the wrestlers and BJP MP Brij Bhushan reverberates in political corridors.
In a surprising turn of events, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited an Akhara in the Jhajjar district of Haryana, meeting with a group of wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia. Bajrang Punia commented that no one was informed about Rahul Gandhi’s visit, and he came to observe the wrestlers’ routine. Rahul Gandhi’s visit to the Akhara occurred against the backdrop of the controversy surrounding the WFI, which has been a topic of discussion.
Traditionally, Jats in Haryana are known to be anti-BJP voters, and the BJP’s stance on various issues has led to tensions with the Jat community. However, some sections of the Jat community have shifted their loyalty to the BJP to some extent. Since most wrestlers like Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, and Vinesh Phogat come from the Jat community, the issue has led to political turmoil. The Jat community constitutes a significant vote bank in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh (especially Western UP), and adjoining Rajasthan. With around 25 to 30 per cent of the vote bank in Haryana being Jats, political factions cannot afford to neglect Jat voters ahead of the polls. Additionally, the agrarian community in the region is primarily from the Jat community.
In the wake of the significant presence of Jat voters, political parties, including the ruling BJP-JJP and the main opposition party, are actively trying to woo Jat voters. Khaps and the agrarian community have come out in support of the wrestlers, demanding equal participation of female players and coaches at key positions in the WFI.
Earlier, the Sports Ministry temporarily suspended the WFI, citing non-compliance with rules and regulations related to the organization of Under-15 and Under-20 national trials by the newly elected body. Terming the ministry’s move a hasty announcement, led to the suspension of the WFI.
Commenting on wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s statement about returning the Arjuna Award, Home Minister Anil Vij stated that the practice of returning or taking back awards should cease. He emphasised that these awards are honours bestowed by international institutions in India, and there should be no consideration of returning them or quitting the sport.