Vinesh Phogat Raises Alarm Over Safety and Fairness Ahead of National Open Ranking Tournament

Vinesh Phogat has voiced serious concerns regarding her safety and the fairness of officiating at the upcoming National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda. With apprehensions about potential bias linked to Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, she has urged the Indian government to take responsibility for any incidents that may occur. As she prepares for her comeback after 18 months, Phogat emphasizes the need for transparency and fairness in the competition, expressing doubts about the environment's impact on her performance. This tournament marks a significant moment for Phogat, who has also recently entered politics, and her statements highlight the ongoing challenges faced by athletes in the wake of serious allegations against Singh.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 3, 2026, 16:01 IST

Concerns Raised by Vinesh Phogat

New Delhi: Renowned wrestler Vinesh Phogat expressed serious concerns on Sunday regarding her safety and that of her team during the upcoming National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda. She emphasized that the Indian government would bear responsibility if any incidents occur, while also voicing worries about potential biased officiating at her first competition in nearly 18 months.

In a video message, Phogat pointed out that the tournament is set to take place at a venue associated with Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, raising fears that the outcomes could be swayed by those connected to the former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president.

Phogat stated, "If anything happens to me, my team, or my supporters during the event, the Indian government will be held accountable," urging the media and sports community to attend the tournament to ensure fairness.

She highlighted that the event is being organized in an area where Singh's influence is significant, questioning who would officiate the matches and how points would be allocated, suggesting that these decisions could be manipulated.

The 31-year-old athlete, who has recently resumed training, expressed her desire to compete fairly and earn medals for India again, but she remains skeptical about the integrity of the competition.

"I do not seek any special treatment; I only want the results to reflect the true efforts of the athletes on the mat," she remarked.

Additionally, Vinesh, who recently entered politics by winning a seat in the Haryana state assembly elections from Julana on a Congress ticket in October 2024, shared her concerns about the mental strain of competing in what she described as a hostile environment, especially as one of the complainants in an ongoing sexual harassment case against Singh.

Citing the Supreme Court's guidelines on protecting victims' identities, Phogat felt compelled to speak out due to the circumstances surrounding the tournament.

"I am one of six female wrestlers who have lodged complaints. The case is still ongoing, and witnesses are being examined. Competing in a venue linked to him, where many present may be affiliated with him, adds significant mental pressure on me," she explained.

"I doubt I can perform at my best in such an atmosphere."

Phogat also criticized the inaction of authorities, claiming that the government and sports ministry have been passive observers, effectively granting Singh a free pass.

She is set to compete in the 57kg category in Gonda, having previously participated in the 50kg and 53kg divisions.

Background

Vinesh has not competed since the 2024 Paris Games, where she was disqualified from the final due to being overweight. Prior to that, a lengthy standoff occurred between top wrestlers and the WFI over allegations of sexual harassment against Singh.

The protests, which began in 2023, involved numerous elite wrestlers, including Olympic medalists, demanding accountability from the then federation chief.

Several female wrestlers filed complaints, leading to ongoing legal proceedings. Singh has denied all allegations.

This controversy has resulted in significant administrative changes within the WFI, including the suspension of activities and intervention by the sports ministry at various points.