Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik has claimed that BJP leader Babita Phogat played a key role in organizing the wrestlers’ protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Singh, raising questions about the true motive behind the movement. According to Malik, Phogat had her own political agenda, aiming to become the WFI president.

Protest or Power Play?

The protest began when several female wrestlers accused Brij Bhushan Singh of misconduct. Malik now alleges that Phogat pushed for the protest, not only to address these issues but also to position herself in the WFI leadership. “Babita wanted to be WFI president, and she used the protest to pursue that goal,” Malik said. This revelation suggests that the protest, initially seen as a fight for justice, might have had political motives behind it.

BJP Involvement: A Political Game?

Malik also clarified that despite rumors, the Congress party was not behind the protest. In fact, it was two BJP leaders—Babita Phogat and Tirath Rana—who helped the wrestlers get permission to protest in Haryana. This involvement of BJP members in the protest has raised suspicions of internal politics playing a role in the entire event.

Brij Bhushan Singh’s Reaction

Brij Bhushan Singh has denied all accusations and called the protest politically motivated. He even stated that the protesting wrestlers were “finished.” Malik rejected this claim, pointing to the success of wrestlers like Vinesh Phogat at the Olympics to prove that their careers were far from over.

What’s Next for Indian Wrestling?

With these new allegations, questions arise: Was the protest a genuine fight for justice, or was it part of BJP’s internal power struggle? As the controversy continues, Indian wrestling faces an uncertain future, with athletes and the public looking for clarity and accountability.