In a significant development, top wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia, have decided to suspend their protest until June 15 following a meeting with Sports Minister Anurag Thakur. The meeting, held at Thakur’s residence, aimed to find a resolution to the ongoing issue that has seen wrestlers demonstrating since January against the outgoing Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
The government has been making concerted efforts to engage with the wrestlers and address their concerns. During the meeting, the government appealed to the wrestlers to withdraw their protest temporarily, allowing the police investigation into the allegations against Brij Bhushan to conclude by June 15. This request demonstrates the government’s commitment to resolving the matter and ensuring a fair investigation.
#WATCH | We had a discussion on some issues. Police investigation should be completed by 15th June and the minister has requested us not to hold protests until then. He also said the security of female wrestlers will be taken care of. We have requested that all FIRs against… pic.twitter.com/rPXCpPcMwU
— ANI (@ANI) June 7, 2023
This meeting marks the second engagement between the wrestlers and the government, as they had previously met with Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday night to discuss their grievances. The wrestlers have been demanding the arrest of Brij Bhushan, alleging his involvement in the sexual harassment of seven women wrestlers.
Wrestler Bajrang Punia, a prominent figure in the sport, expressed the outcome of the meeting, stating that the government has assured them that the police investigation will be completed by June 15. Additionally, the wrestlers requested the withdrawal of all FIRs filed against them, a demand that was reportedly agreed upon by the Sports Minister.
However, Punia made it clear that if no action is taken by the specified deadline, the wrestlers will resume their protest. This statement underscores their determination to see concrete steps taken to address their concerns and deliver justice.
