Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin strongly criticized the detention of protesting wrestlers in Delhi by the police and aimed at the central government, stating that the symbolic ‘Sengol’ installed in the new Parliament building had “bent” on its very first day. Stalin’s comments appeared to be a dig at the hype surrounding the scepter, which is seen as a representation of governance and justice. The Sengol was unveiled in the new Parliament building during its inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Stalin’s reaction came in response to the Delhi Police detaining renowned wrestlers Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Bajrang Punia for violating law and order in the capital city. The wrestlers had breached the security cordon while attempting to move towards the new Parliament building for a planned women’s ‘Mahapanchayat’ or assembly.
The champion wrestlers resumed their protest against the President of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, on April 23. They demanded Singh’s arrest for the alleged sexual harassment of several female wrestlers, including a minor.
In a tweet, Chief Minister Stalin expressed his condemnation of the police detaining the wrestlers, emphasizing that it reflected the bending of the Sengol. He criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership for not taking action against Singh despite the allegations made by the women wrestlers months ago.
Stalin questioned the fairness of such atrocities occurring on the day of the new Parliament building’s inauguration, which was also marked by the opposition’s boycott and sidestepping of the President. As the leader of the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Tamil Nadu, Stalin expressed his disapproval of the police action and the lack of action taken against the accused in the alleged sexual harassment case.
The incident involving the detained wrestlers highlights the ongoing tensions and protests within the sports community against instances of sexual harassment and misconduct. The wrestlers’ attempt to bring attention to their grievances during the inauguration of the new Parliament building further intensified the spotlight on the issue.
As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen how the central government and the Wrestling Federation of India will respond to the demands for justice and accountability raised by the wrestlers. The incident also underscores the significance of addressing allegations of sexual harassment and promoting a safe and inclusive environment within the sports industry.
