Wrestling uprising? Bajrang, Sakshee, Vinesh face backlash from 100s

The crisis in Indian wrestling took a new turn today as hundreds of junior wrestlers gathered at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. They were protesting the halt of national camps and competitions for over a year, which they say has severely impacted their careers.

The junior wrestlers arrived in buses from UP, Haryana and Delhi, catching police off-guard. Close to 300 came from a Baghpat academy while others arrived from Narela. As more buses come in, the numbers are set to swell.

#WATCH | Young wrestlers hold protests against Olympic-winning wrestlers Sakshee Malikkh, Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, at Delhi's Jantar Mantar pic.twitter.com/5yHVsksKp8

— ANI (@ANI) January 3, 2024

Protesters target Punia, Malikkh and Phogat

Nearly 300 wrestlers came from the Arya Samaj Akhara Academy, with more en route. The impassioned group shouted slogans against top stars Bajrang Punia, Sakshee Malikkh and Vinesh Phogat - ironically the same trio who drew public support at Jantar Mantar last year accusing the wrestling chief of harassment.

Now the juniors blame the star wrestlers for derailing their progression. With camps and competitions on hold for a year under a new temporary panel, the protesters say the suspended wrestling federation should be restored.

Appeal to save next generation

The intense demonstration highlighted growing frustration over the dysfunctional administration that has blocked the rise of junior talent. Carrying banners reading "Save our wrestling," the youth appealed for intervention to rescue the dreams of the next generation before it's too late. Their stirring stand epitomised the escalating battle for the soul of Indian wrestling.

Demands made to restore WFI

The protesting junior wrestlers demanded that the suspended WFI be restored after removing the current ad-hoc panel appointed by the sports ministry. They say it is this panel that has brought Indian wrestling to a standstill for over 11 months now.