Vinesh Phogat warns the government over safety concerns at the Gonda tournament, questions fairness, and reveals she is among complainants against Brij Bhushan.
WFI clears confusion, Vinesh Phogat allowed 53kg weigh-in for Asian Games trials in Delhi (PC: IANS)
Ace Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has, for the first time, revealed that she is one of the six women wrestlers who filed a sexual harassment complaint against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, while also raising serious concerns over safety and fairness ahead of the National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda from May 12 to 14.
Announcing that she will be present at the competition, Phogat issued a strong warning regarding safety.
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“I will also be attending the ranking competition; my team and my well-wishers will be there with me. If any untoward incident happens to anyone, I want to make it clear to everyone: the government will be held directly responsible.”
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🎥 | Ace Indian wrestler #VineshPhogat has, for the first time, revealed in a video message that she is one of the six women wrestlers who filed a sexual harassment complaint against former WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
Read the Full Story- https://t.co/Fu5SWWVpTn… pic.twitter.com/QW6JWWyPzh
— The Statesman (@TheStatesmanLtd) May 3, 2026
In a video shared on social media, the Commonwealth and Asian Games medallist questioned the integrity of the competition, alleging that the choice of venue, considered a stronghold of Brij Bhushan, could impact fair play.
Phogat also made a significant revelation about the ongoing case.
“Three years ago, we raised our voices against sexual harassment. Six women wrestlers have already testified before the court. I did not want to speak while the case is still pending, but I want to tell you all today: I myself am one of those six victims who filed a complaint, and our testimonies are still ongoing,” she said.
She further alleged that the environment in Gonda could compromise fairness.
“Every hardworking athlete will get their due there, this is something very unlikely and almost impossible. Who will referee whose match, how many points a referee will give… all of this will be controlled by Brij Bhushan and his people,” she alleged.
Phogat also expressed concerns over transparency in crucial procedures, including weigh-ins.
“I don’t think the weights of all the hardworking wrestlers will be checked fairly, or that the results on the mat will truly reflect their hard work.”
Despite Brij Bhushan’s official removal as WFI chief, she further alleged that he continues to exert influence over the federation, while the Sports Ministry remains a “silent spectator”.
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