Vinesh Phogat Launches Scathing Attack on Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, Accuses BJP of Support
NEW DELHI – In a fiery broadside, Olympic medalist wrestler and Congress leader Vinesh Phogat on Tuesday unleashed a scathing attack on former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, labeling him a "goon and a criminal" and accusing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of actively supporting him despite serious allegations of sexual harassment by women wrestlers.
Phogat, a decorated athlete with a World Championship bronze medal and an Asian Games gold medal to her name, delivered her impassioned remarks to reporters in Jind, where she was attending a political programme. Her comments mark a continuation of her vocal criticism against Singh, who was at the epicentre of a high-profile wrestlers’ protest that gripped the nation in 2023.
"Who is Brij Bhushan? Forget about him. He is a goon and a criminal. Why should we give so much respect to that man?" Phogat questioned, her voice laced with indignation. She further challenged Singh’s perceived influence, alleging widespread suffering among the populace in his political stronghold of Gonda and raising pointed questions about his substantial wealth and alleged land encroachment.
"How many people have been troubled in Gonda? How much land has he encroached upon? We will fight this battle in the Supreme Court and take it forward. Where does he fly in helicopters? Where did all this money come from?" Phogat demanded, hinting at further legal action and a deeper investigation into his finances.
Allegations of BJP Backing and Misuse of Power
Phogat, a three-time Commonwealth Games gold medalist, did not mince words when accusing the BJP of complicity. She alleged that Singh’s financial power and influence had been systematically used to exploit and oppress women. "On the strength of money, atrocities are committed against girls. This is the reality of the BJP. The BJP is supporting him," she declared, directly implicating the ruling party in shielding the former WFI chief.
Drawing a stark parallel, Phogat also highlighted the perceived hypocrisy in the treatment of various protest movements. She likened the police action against protesting wrestlers in 2023 to the forceful crackdown witnessed during recent farmer protests. "Three years ago, the way the police behaved with us, we saw the same behaviour with our daughters at Jantar Mantar in Delhi," she stated, underscoring a pattern of alleged police brutality against peaceful demonstrators.
Phogat’s strong statements are expected to reignite the debate surrounding the allegations against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and the political implications of the support he seemingly receives. Her continued outspokenness highlights the deep-seated anger and frustration among the wrestling community regarding the handling of the sexual harassment claims and the perceived lack of justice.
