Statement by Students’ Federation of India and Democratic Youth Federation of India
Date: 07/08/24
The Students’ Federation of India and the Democratic Youth Federation of India vehemently condemn the arbitrary and unjust disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics 2024. This is not merely a setback for Indian sports but a blatant attack on the spirit of fair play and the aspirations of millions of young Indians.
Vinesh Phogat is a symbol of resilience, courage, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence. Her journey is intertwined with the historic struggle against the oppressive regime of Brij Bhushan Singh, former BJP MP, a chapter that exposed the deep-rooted malaise within the Wrestling Federation of India.
The circumstances surrounding Vinesh’s disqualification are shrouded in suspicion and point towards a sinister conspiracy. Her dissatisfaction with the support staff and coach, coupled with the inexplicable denial of access to her close associates, raises serious questions about the role of the Wrestling Federation of India in this entire affair. Back in the month of April, Vinesh had called our WFI ahead of Olympic qualifiers and had expressed her concerns over the coaches.
We demand a thorough and impartial investigation into the role of the Wrestling Federation of India and its officials in this matter. The nation deserves to know the truth. The disqualification of Vinesh Phogat is not just an injustice to her but a betrayal of the trust millions of Indians have reposed in our sports system.
We stand in solidarity with Vinesh Phogat and gives the call to all the units around the country to protest against the corrupt, incompetent sports authority comprising the Ministry of Sports and Wrestling Federation of India on 8th August 2024.
We urge the sports fraternity, the media, and the people of India to unite in demanding justice for Vinesh Phogat. Her fight is our fight.
Justice for Vinesh Phogat!
Down with sports corruption!
Sd/-
Himagnaraj Bhattacharya (General Secretary, Dyfi)
Mayukh Biswas (General Secretary, SFI)
A Rahim (President, DYFI)
VP Sanu (President, SFI)