Former ace wrestler Sakshi Malik, the only woman Olympic medalist in wrestling from India, has hinted at a possible reconsideration of her retirement decision following the dissolution of the newly-elected executive committee of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). Malik emphasized that her decision would be influenced by the formation of the next governing body.
Retirement Decision Pending Federation Formation
In response to the recent developments within the WFI, Sakshi Malik stated, “I will tell you about the decision according to the federation that would be formed.” The dissolution of the executive committee and subsequent uncertainty regarding the leadership of the WFI seem to have prompted Malik to reconsider her retirement from professional wrestling.
Protest Against Deposed WFI Chief
Sakshi Malik clarified that the ongoing protest by wrestlers is not against the government but directed at the deposed WFI chief, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Singh is facing sexual harassment charges, and the matter is currently in court. The wrestlers, including Malik, have expressed their concerns regarding the leadership of the WFI and have sought justice for women wrestlers.
Government’s Suspension of WFI
In response to the controversial decisions made by the newly-elected WFI chief Sanjay Singh, the Union sports ministry took the unprecedented step of suspending the Wrestling Federation of India along with all its office-bearers. The ministry criticized the hasty decision to host U-15 and U-20 nationals without proper notification to prospective participants, contravening the WFI’s constitution.
Clarity Sought by Sakshi Malik
While Sakshi Malik welcomed the government’s decision to suspend the WFI, she expressed the need for clarity regarding the extent of the suspension. Malik emphasized that the fight of the protesting wrestlers was not against the government but aimed at ensuring justice for women wrestlers. She reiterated her retirement announcement but stressed the importance of upcoming wrestlers receiving fair treatment.
Election Results and Athlete Protest
The WFI went through elections on December 21, resulting in the appointment of Sanjay Singh as the chief. However, the election outcomes faced resistance from protesting wrestlers, leading to Sakshi Malik’s retirement announcement and Bajrang Punia’s decision to return his Padma Shri as a mark of protest.
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