New Delhi: Times always change, swinging between highs and lows, but they never remain stagnant. About a year and a quarter ago, the streets of New Delhi witnessed two of India’s Olympic medallists fighting for justice. They were on their way to the inauguration of the new Parliament by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, the police intervened, resulting in a confrontation that saw the athletes being manhandled. Among these athletes were Olympic medallists Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, and Vinesh Phogat.
Fast forward to 14 months and 9 days after that incident on May 28, 2023. On the night of August 6, 2024, the eyes of the entire nation were glued to screens as Vinesh Phogat, India’s star wrestler, battled for a spot in the Olympic finals in Paris. Facing Cuban wrestler Guzman Lopez, Vinesh triumphed 5-0 in a six-minute match, securing India’s fourth medal at these Olympics.
Vinesh Phogat made history as the first female wrestler from India to reach the final of any Olympics. This assured her of a medal, but her journey to this point was fraught with challenges and skepticism. Many in the country had written her off, branding her a failed wrestler and an opportunist. Their animosity stemmed from Vinesh’s vocal advocacy for the rights of herself and her fellow women wrestlers. To these critics, Vinesh retorted, “My haters, I have a lot for you, so that you can get angry, just have a little patience.”
The saga began in January 2023, when Vinesh, Sakshi, Bajrang, and several young women wrestlers staged a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. The target of their protest was former Wrestling Federation of India president and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who was accused of molestation, sexual harassment, and arbitrariness by several women wrestlers. The protest, which started on a cold January afternoon, soon gained national attention. Despite assurances from then Sports Minister Anurag Thakur and the formation of committees, Brij Bhushan remained in his position, denying the allegations.
When no strict action followed, the wrestlers resumed their protest at Jantar Mantar at the end of April. They lodged a complaint with the police, alleging that the authorities failed to register an FIR. The protest continued, marked by confrontations with the police. On May 28, during the inauguration of the new Parliament, a clash with the police shocked the nation. The wrestlers’ struggle divided public opinion, with many supporting Brij Bhushan on political grounds.
As the case proceeded in court, Vinesh focused on her wrestling amidst the turmoil. Despite an injury in August that sidelined her for several days, Vinesh’s resolve remained unshaken. She faced opposition even during the qualification rounds. Unable to secure success in her favorite 53 kg category, she took on the challenge of the 50 kg category and earned her spot in Paris.
In just 24 hours in Paris, Vinesh defeated the world’s number one wrestler and reached the final. She not only made history but also delivered on her promise to give her detractors more reasons to be angry.
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