New Delhi, 22-12-2023 : In a bold and symbolic move, Olympic medallist grappler Bajrang Punia has announced his decision to return the prestigious Padma Shri award in protest against the election of Sanjay Singh as the president of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). Sanjay Singh is widely recognized as a loyalist of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, and his recent election has stirred controversy within the Indian wrestling community.
Taking to social media, Bajrang Punia, the bronze medallist at the Tokyo Olympics, shared a post declaring his decision to return the Padma Shri award. The move is a strong expression of dissent and disappointment regarding the recent developments within the WFI.
Sanjay Singh’s election as the president unfolded after the panel led by the close aide of Brij Bhushan secured victories in 13 out of the 15 posts. This outcome has triggered concerns among prominent wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat.
A press conference held after Sanjay Singh’s election saw Sakshi Malik, a bronze medallist at the 2016 Rio Olympics, announcing her decision to quit the sport as a mark of protest. The athletes expressed their concerns about the direction the WFI was taking under the newly elected leadership.
Bajrang Punia, in a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, shed light on the ongoing issues within the wrestling community. He highlighted the protests initiated by women wrestlers in January, accusing Brij Bhushan Singh of sexual harassment. Despite promises from the government, no FIR was filed against Singh even after three months, leading to a renewed protest in April. Bajrang expressed disappointment that, despite 19 initial complainants, the number reduced to 7, suggesting an undue influence exerted by Brij Bhushan Singh on the wrestlers.
In a symbolic attempt to personally deliver his letter of protest to Prime Minister Modi, Bajrang Punia was stopped by Delhi Police officials at the Kartavya Path. Despite lacking permission to proceed, Bajrang clarified that he was not protesting aggressively and requested the officials to forward his letter to the Prime Minister.
Bajrang Punia’s decision to return the Padma Shri award stands as a powerful statement against the alleged injustices and lack of accountability within the Wrestling Federation of India. The wrestling community is now grappling with the implications of these protests and the need for transparency and fairness in the administration of the sport.