Vinesh Phogat Expresses Concerns Over Safety and Fair Play at Gonda Wrestling Tournament

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat on Sunday said the Union government would be responsible if anything happens to her or her team members during the upcoming National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh. She also raised concerns about officiating in her comeback event.

In a video message ahead of her return after nearly 18 months, Vinesh said the competition, to be held at a venue linked to Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, could see results influenced by people close to the former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief. "If any untoward incident happens to me, my team or supporters during the competition, the Indian government will be responsible," Vinesh reiterated, while asking the media and the sports community to be present at the venue.

"The tournament is being organised at a place where his (Brij) influence is strong. Who will officiate which bout, how many points will be awarded, who will sit as mat chairman, everything can be controlled by him and his people," she added.

The 31-year-old, who has resumed training, said she wants to return to competition and win medals again, but said she is not sure about getting a fair chance. "I don't want any privilege or special treatment. I only want that results should reflect the hard work of athletes on the mat," she said.

She also spoke about the mental pressure of competing in what she described as a difficult environment, especially as one of the complainants in the sexual harassment case against Singh. Phogat confirmed she is one of the six women wrestlers who had filed complaints of sexual harassment against former WFI chief Brij Bhushan. Referring to Supreme Court guidelines on protecting the identity of victims, she said she felt the need to speak due to the situation.

"The Supreme Court guidelines say that the identity of any victim should not be revealed, because it concerns their dignity and honour," Vinesh said. "But today, due to certain circumstances, I want to tell you all something. I did not want to speak while the case is still pending... But I want to say that I myself am one of those six victims who filed a complaint, and our testimonies are still ongoing."

"Competing at a place linked to him, where most people present may be associated with him, puts immense mental pressure on me,” she said. "I doubt if I will be able to give my 100 per cent in that environment." She also said that authorities have not acted and that the government and sports ministry were "watching as spectators" and had given a "free hand" to Singh. Vinesh will compete in the 57kg category in Gonda.