In the scorching heat of a ruthless summer, a chilling rebellion unfolds. The World Championships and the Asian Games are only three months away, and India’s extraordinary wrestlers have abandoned their training grounds. Instead, they’re protesting against the disgustingly flawed system- spending sleepless nights and scorching days without proper nutrition for the past one month.
This dark tale of power abuse, corruption and scandal will gist you about why the wrestlers are protesting, the government’s involvement, and how we can bring change.
Justice Delayed is Justice Denied
BJP MP Brij Bhushan Singh, also the chief of WFI (Wrestling Federation of India), has been accused at least twice of soliciting sexual favors from female wrestlers, including a minor, in exchange for professional assistance. These accusations encompass a shocking fifteen instances of sexual assault, involving molestation, inappropriate touching, and stalking.
On April 23, 2023, the resounding silence was shattered as the wrestlers initiated a protest, demanding the arrest of Bhushan Singh. Unfortunately, pressure from their families and a call from a BJP leader convinced them to temporarily slow down their efforts, although their thirst for justice remained unshakeable.
Undeterred by the brutal repression they faced, Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Bajrang Punia, supported by the public, continued their protest. In response to Bhushan Singh’s disgraceful defense, where he claimed the misuse of laws protecting women, the wrestlers fearlessly challenged the WFI, demanding a narco test for both themselves and the president. For over a month, they have endured sleepless nights on the streets, seeking nothing more than justice for the reprehensible actions of a politician. Alas, a BJP leader announced Bhushan Singh’s intention to contest the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections, further solidifying the eclipse of justice in our nation, leaving no space for the principles of democracy or basic humanity to prevail.
Bhushan Singh casts a dark cloud of shame not only over the government but also over the entire country. The absence of resolute action towards justice fuels the flames of disgrace, tarnishing the essence of democracy itself.
Seeking Change
I wish I could escape to a world where my civics textbook reflects reality, where criminals face consequences, where politicians aren’t just upper-caste hindu men with Rajnigandha and a Fotuner, and justice prevails. Sadly, that’s too much to ask for.
I’m a furious fourteen-year-old. It’s hard not to be agitated when criminals make decisions for our country. It’s difficult not to be scared when even the most respected women in our nation have to fight for months on the streets for justice, only to be met with disappointment and physical harm by the police.
I’ve reached my limit. It’s essential that we vote for the right people and follow B.R. Ambedhkar’s words: “Educate, Agitate, Organise.”
Educate: Educate yourself and raise awareness about such issues in your surroundings.
Agitate: Speak up when your rights are violated and take appropriate action.
Organise: Establish organizations to support marginalized communities and those in need.