The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) perceives that the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) issue has the potential to emerge as a focal point for the Opposition in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The Sports Ministry took action on Saturday by suspending the newly-elected WFI body, citing the federation's complete disregard for existing rules and regulations. However, sources suggest that behind the scenes, the government is engaged in political maneuvering leading up to the 2024 elections.
Amid allegations of sexual harassment by women wrestlers against Brijbhushan Sharan Singh, the former president of WFI and a BJP Member of Parliament from Kaiserganj in Uttar Pradesh, the WFI has been under scrutiny. After the WFI elections, where Sanjay Singh, a close aide of the former president, was elected as the new president, Olympic medallist Sakshee Malikkh expressed distress, threatening to quit wrestling. Wrestler Bajrang Punia also returned his Padma Shri.
Notably, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra visited Sakshee Malikkh at her residence a day after she expressed the intention to quit wrestling.
The BJP is apprehensive that the fallout from the WFI controversy, especially the retirements of prominent wrestlers, could convey a negative message about the government and the party within the sports community. There are concerns that India's standing in international sports, particularly in the International Olympic Committee, might be compromised.
Political strategists within the BJP and the government think that if the Congress and the INDIA bloc make the WFI issue a major campaign point in the 2024 elections, it could lead to a loss of support from women and Jat voters.
In response to the unfolding crisis, BJP President JP Nadda contacted Brijbhushan Sharan Singh, urging him to come to Delhi for a meeting. During the meeting, Nadda instructed Singh to clarify his position in the media, stating that he is no longer associated with WFI and there is no interference from his side. Singh, facing allegations of sexual harassment, was asked to mention that the matter is sub judice and that the court's decision would be acceptable.
Sources suggest that the new WFI body may approach the Delhi High Court against the suspension, seeking an injunction on the decision. If successful, the court might direct the suspension order to be revoked, presenting the BJP with a favorable outcome.
