Wrestlers’ protest & Parliament inauguration: social media chronicles ‘medal to muzzle’ story

They were the beacons of glory, of national pride when they showcased their exceptional prowess on the international stage. The whole of India celebrated when our wrestlers brought home the laurels.

The air was filled with euphoria when the country celebrated their hard-earned medals, they were symbols of India’s determination and indomitable spirit. These wrestlers, embodying the strength and resilience of our nation, brought honour to India with their remarkable feats.

And yet, our Olympians, our medal winners, their achievements, all were forgotten in a matter of seconds on Sunday.

The scenes that unfolded at Jantar Mantar should leave a profound impact on the collective conscience of the nation.

Dragged through the streets like second-class citizens, even Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra couldn’t hide his disappointment over the treatment of some of country’s most revered sportspersons.

The very athletes who had brought immense pride and joy were subjected to an experience that undermined their right to protest. Their peaceful intentions were met with an unfortunate turn of events.

Only 2 kilometres away, PM Narendra Modi was doing the Shashtang Pranaam to the Adheenam seers; showcasing India’s might to the world with the new Parliament building.

The contrast couldn’t go unnoticed as India celebrated its new temple of democracy, the Delhi Police, charged with maintaining law and order were forcibly dragging the wrestlers away from the streets, curbing their aspirations to make their voices heard in front of the nation's lawmakers.