'All Dreams Are Fading': Vinesh Phogat To Return Arjuna Award Amid WFI Row

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has announced her decision to return the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna, the country's highest sporting honour, and the Arjuna Award, both of which were bestowed upon her in 2020. The announcement was made through a strongly worded open letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, shared on her social media platforms.

This unprecedented move follows in the footsteps of fellow wrestler Bajrang Punia, who returned his Padma Shri in protest against the controversial election of Sanjay Kumar Singh as the new president of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI).

The Awards in Question

Phogat, a revered figure in Indian sports, had been bestowed with the Khel Ratna in 2020 and the Arjuna Award in 2016. These accolades represent the pinnacle of sporting recognition in the country, making her decision to relinquish them a poignant statement.

Full English translation of Vinesh Phogat's letter to the Prime Minister.

She wrote "I'd dreamt of winning an Olympic medal, but that dream is fading now" and that "every woman wants to live life with respect."https://t.co/euWIAazMiG pic.twitter.com/9ukS1vJQau

— Shyam Vasudevan (@JesuisShyam) December 26, 2023

The Political Tussle

The heart of the matter lies in the recent WFI elections held on December 21. The election results, with individuals closely affiliated with BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh winning 13 out of 15 posts, including the president's position, triggered a wave of discontent within the wrestling community. Singh's victory, perceived as a political manoeuvre, prompted not only Phogat but also fellow grapplers Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia to take significant stands.

Phogat's decision to return her awards mirrors a broader protest against what is perceived as an undue influence of political affiliations in the WFI. The sportspersons, led by Malik, Phogat, and Punia, had previously raised concerns about Brij Bhushan's alleged misconduct towards female wrestlers, including minors. Despite assurances of 'justice' from the ruling government, the concerns persisted, leading to a resolute stand against the newly elected governing body.

Government's Response and Wrestlers' Dissatisfaction

In response to the escalating situation, the Sports Ministry took a decisive step by suspending the WFI and appointing an interim panel under the Indian Olympic Association to oversee the federation's affairs. However, the protesting wrestlers, including Vinesh Phogat, expressed dissatisfaction with the suspension alone, emphasising the need for concrete actions against Brij Bhushan.

Despite the suspension of WFI, the wrestlers remain resolute in their demand for action against Brij Bhushan, who continues to hold his position as a BJP MP in Lok Sabha.

Vinesh Phogat's letter reflects on a pivotal moment in 2016 when Sakshi Malik became an ambassador for the government's 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' campaign after winning a bronze medal at the Rio Olympics. The decision initially instilled hope and pride but has now become a reminder of the exploitation faced by female athletes. 

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat returns Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna and Arjun awards pic.twitter.com/9amuCyxPvw

— ANI (@ANI) December 26, 2023

"When we won medals for the country, the whole country considered us its pride. Now that we raised our voice for justice, we are being called traitors. Prime Minister, I want to ask you, are we traitors,"

Vinesh questions whether women athletes are reduced to mere faces on government advertisements, highlighting the paradox between adorning billboards and being labelled traitors when they raise their voices for justice.

The Road Ahead: Wrestlers' Determination

The return of awards by top wrestlers, including Vinesh Phogat, highlights the urgency of addressing the underlying issues plaguing Indian wrestling. While Sakshi Malik expresses optimism about the future and hints at a possible reconsideration of her retirement decision, Bajrang Punia stands firm, refusing to take back his Padma Shri until complete justice is delivered.

Government Intervention

While the WFI election results were initially accepted, the Union sports ministry's subsequent suspension of the governing body raises questions about the legitimacy and transparency of the electoral process. The suspension, pending further orders, hints at a potential reevaluation of the election proceedings.

Wrestlers, including Phogat, had initiated protests earlier in the year, demanding justice and accountability. The ongoing chaos reveals the crossroads of sports, politics, and social issues, highlighting the broader implications of leadership choices within sporting federations.