On Thursday, December 21, Sakshi Malik, India’s lone female Olympic medal-winning wrestler, declared her retirement in Delhi. Her decision came following the election of Sanjay Singh as the new president of the Wrestler’s Federation of India (WFI). Sakshi, who had previously raised concerns against WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, tearfully announced her departure during a press conference, symbolically placing her wrestling shoes on the table. Expressing frustration, she declared, “I will not be competing in wrestling anymore.” Sanjay’s election, close to a year after protests against Brij Bhushan’s alleged sexual harassment, raised concerns due to his close association with the accused. Sakshi emphasized unfulfilled government commitments and the need for a female president. The emotional press conference highlighted the challenges faced by wrestlers seeking justice. Sakshi later shared a social media note expressing gratitude and bidding farewell to wrestling.
The backdrop of Sanjay’s election is a protest by wrestlers in Delhi a year ago, demanding action against then WFI president Brij Bhushan Singh, accused of sexual harassment by six women wrestlers. Sanjay, now elected president, has faced allegations of physical abuse, dictatorial behavior, and financial irregularities. In September 2023, the Delhi Police reported that Brij Bhushan Singh used every opportunity to harass wrestlers.
Sakshi, a Rio Olympics bronze medalist, revealed that it took several years for wrestlers to muster the courage to speak out about Brij Bhushan’s alleged harassment. She criticized the election outcome, noting that the new president is akin to Brij Bhushan’s right-hand man. The unfulfilled government commitment and the absence of a female president were key points in Sakshi’s emotional address.
Following the press conference, Sakshi shared a social media post expressing gratitude for the awards won for the country and bidding farewell to wrestling. The developments underscore the challenges and frustrations faced by athletes seeking justice within the sporting community.