Wrestlers’ Protest: After UWW, IOC expresses solidarity with grapplers

Just a day after the United World Wrestling (UWW) spoke out in support of the Indian wrestlers, now the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has also expressed solidarity with the protestors.

The international body said that the treatment of the Indian wrestling athletes over the weekend was very disturbing.

Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat and their fellow wrestlers were detained by the Delhi Police on May 28 during their march to the new Parliament building.

Tokyo Olympics medallist Bajrang Punia has also been protesting against former Wrestling Federation of India chief Brijbhushan Sharan Singh, who has been accused of sexually harassing several female wrestlers including a minor.

FIRs were filed against Singh by the Delhi Police, a matter which the IOC also addressed in its statement, saying, ‘We understand that a first step towards such a criminal investigation has been made, but more steps have to follow before concrete actions become visible.’

The Olympic organisation insisted for an unbiased criminal investigation into the allegations in line with the local law.

According to The Indian Express, the IOC also urged the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), headed by P T Usha to ‘protect the athletes.’

After the UWW condemnation over the treatment being meted out to wrestlers, IOC’s statement is significant in more than one way.

Firstly, UWW is an IOC-recognised international body for wrestlers, of which the WFI is also a part.

Secondly, India is set to host the IOC’s annual session in less than six months’ time where the Indian government will pitch Gujarat as a probable location for the 2036 Olympic Games.

The IE report also stated that the UWW and IOC are considering holding a joint virtual meeting to discuss the Indian wrestlers’ ordeal.