- As you are aware, the Indian sports administration finds itself in the firing line most often than not for all the wrong reasons. As it is, Indian sporting achievements in international forums and platforms are far and few in between. Of late, thankfully, focused emphasis is being accorded to sports by the governments with adequate funding as well as sponsorers loosening their purses. This is a much-needed paradigm shift that is bound to yield positive results in the coming years. We also know how the sporting administration has marred the efficient running of federations and organizations courtesy of politicians occupying administrative roles. The political machinations ensure political leaders with clout occupy administrative positions despite being not qualified.
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- Heading sporting organizations are largely viewed as a prestigious assignment, allowing the political masters to flaunt their position with great aplomb. However, gross misuse of the position, siphoning off funds, favoritism, corruption, and sexual harassment charges have made their presence sporadic. One such case is hitting the national headlines right now. Three months after their initial protest, some of India’s top wrestlers are again demanding action against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Recall that in January, the renowned wrestlers, viz. Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and others, leveled serious allegations of sexual harassment against Singh on behalf of fellow wrestlers.
- Keep in mind that the aforementioned wrestlers have excelled for the nation and that their combined voices ought to be taken seriously. Following the allegations, Singh was asked to step down, and the Union Sports Ministry formed a six-person oversight committee to investigate the wrongdoings. The wrestlers are now calling for the release of the committee’s report and Singh’s immediate arrest for allegedly harassing seven female wrestlers, among them a juvenile. The entire incident is ripping the wrestling community apart. WFI has refuted Singh’s allegations and hinted at a plot against him. This frequently occurs in the world of sports.
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- It’s a well-worn playbook in the sports world where those in charge quickly stifle any allegations of misconduct against coaches, staff, and administrators. Note that the US gymnastics sex abuse scandal that saw more than 368 athletes accuse gym owners, coaches, and national team doctor Larry Nassar of sexual assault over two decades is a case in point. Nassar was ultimately charged, convicted, and sentenced to long prison sentences. Similarly, the wrestling episode is a test case for Indian sports authorities in handling reports of sexual misconduct. Already, the episode has affected India’s chances of winning medals in wrestling at the Paris Olympics next year. Thus, the report of the oversight committee must be published and action initiated forthwith.
