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Vinesh Phogat Revives Allegations Against Brijbhushan

  • By Thetripurapost Desk, Lucknow
  • May 04, 2026
  • 307

Olympian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has once again raised serious allegations against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, citing safety concerns ahead of an upcoming tournament in Uttar Pradesh.

In a video shared on social media, Vinesh said the Senior Open Ranking Wrestling Tournament is scheduled to be held in Gonda from May 10 to 12—Brijbhushan’s hometown. She expressed apprehension about participating, stating she is one of the six complainants in the sexual harassment case against him, which is currently under trial.

“I am one of the six victims who filed complaints. My testimony is ongoing. It will be difficult for me to go to his hometown and compete. I may not be able to give my 100%. This is very difficult for a girl,” she said.

Vinesh warned that despite her concerns, she and her team would participate, but held the government accountable for any untoward incident. “If anything wrong happens to anyone, the Indian government will be responsible,” she added.

The wrestler also alleged that the tournament could be influenced by Brijbhushan and his associates, questioning the neutrality of referees, match officials, and overall conduct of the event. She accused authorities and the Sports Ministry of remaining “silent spectators.”

Recalling the protests at Jantar Mantar nearly three years ago, Vinesh said six female wrestlers had filed complaints of sexual harassment against Brijbhushan, and the matter remains pending in court. She emphasized that victims’ identities are protected under Supreme Court guidelines but said she felt compelled to reveal her identity now.

Vinesh, currently a Congress MLA from Julana in Haryana, also spoke about her return to wrestling after a gap of nearly one and a half years. She said she has resumed training in recent months and aims to win medals again for the country.

Brijbhushan, a former BJP MP, continues to wield influence in wrestling circles. His sons are active in politics, with one serving as an MP and another as an MLA in Uttar Pradesh.

The allegations come at a sensitive time for Indian wrestling, with concerns over governance, athlete safety, and transparency once again in focus.