In a recent turn of events, Indian wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia found themselves facing criticism and legal challenges after receiving direct entries to the Hangzhou Asian Games.
The decision by the IOA to exempt them from trials stirred anger within the wrestling fraternity, with young wrestlers Antim Panghal and Sujeet Kalkal going as far as approaching the Delhi High Court in an attempt to overturn the decision. Both Vinesh and Bajrang, who were abroad for training at the time, took to social media to address the allegations and respond to the developments. They expressed that they were hurt by the legal actions taken against them but also acknowledged the importance of young wrestlers standing up for their rights. Vinesh stated that they were not against trials, acknowledging Antim’s fight for her rightful opportunity.
However, she also reminded everyone of their own struggles against the system in the past, where they faced obstacles without support. Vinesh emphasized that she and Bajrang were not wrong for seeking exemption and believed it was the responsibility of the governing bodies to ensure proper training time.
Bajrang added that Vinesh had an impeccable record and should not be underestimated, while defending their right to receive adequate preparation time. The duo emphasized that they were not afraid of trials but needed enough time to train properly, given their dedication to wrestling over the last two decades. While expressing their appreciation for the courage shown by the young wrestlers in raising their voices, Vinesh and Bajrang disapproved of misleading information being spread about their contributions to the sport.