Treatment of Indian wrestlers very disturbing: IOC

New Delhi. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has strongly condemned the Delhi Police’s handling of the protesting wrestlers, saying it was “very disturbing”. The IOC’s reaction comes after United World Wrestling (UWW) criticized the detention of wrestlers during their protest at Jantar Mantar. Wrestling’s global body had threatened to suspend the national federation if it failed to conduct its elections within the stipulated time. Top wrestlers like Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia and Sangeeta Phogat have accused former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment.

According to a statement released from the IOC, “The treatment meted out to Indian wrestlers over the weekend was deeply troubling. The IOC sincerely wishes that the allegations made by the wrestlers should be subjected to an impartial criminal investigation in accordance with local law. But more steps have to be taken before concrete action emerges. We urge that the safety of these wrestlers be taken care of during this process and the investigation be completed expeditiously.

Delhi Police on Sunday detained World Championships bronze winner Vinesh and another Olympic medalist Bajrang along with Sakshi and later registered an FIR against them for violation of law and order. Wrestlers and their supporters were trying to break through the security cordon and move towards the new Parliament House for the Mahila ‘Mahapanchayat’ despite not being given permission. The Delhi Police tried to stop them and then forcibly took them into the bus. The wrestlers are demanding the arrest of Brij Bhushan for allegedly sexually assaulting several female wrestlers, including a minor.

The IOC further said in its statement, “The IOC has been in contact with the UWW since the inception of the allegations. The UWW has already taken its stand on the matter.” He added, “The IOC supports the UWW to address this issue as it pertains to the governance of the sport of wrestling in India. We have been informed by them that the (former) President of WFI is not currently in charge.” Where is it?

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